WHAT IS THE POINT? ASK THIS QUESTION OFTEN WHEN NECESSARY

Before speaking, arguing, explaining—or rambling around the neighborhood—ask one useful question:

What is the point?

Ask this question of yourself and, when appropriate, of others:

What is the point?

Look at your own conduct and discover the usefulness of this little question. Gibberish, squawking, rambling and wandering all over the moment may make noise—but noise does not always make sense.

WE MAKE IT MEAN SOMETHING

That is what a point does when properly called upon, wielded and released. It gives purpose to the speaker, clarity to the receiver and something useful for the observer.

History records mankind making worthy points—and plenty of not-so-worthy ones. Both are allowed, but only one leaves us wiser.

POINT-MAKING 101

Everyone wants a turn to be heard. When that turn is taken or given, make it count.

A good point begins somewhere, says something and arrives somewhere. When it succeeds, satisfaction makes the rounds. When it does not, head-scratching and eyebrow-raising begin.

YOUR POINT

A point can be:

1. A question
2. An observation
3. A warning
4. A correction
5. A compliment

Whatever form it takes, it should travel full circle. It starts, states and concludes.

Otherwise, it may only be words out for a walk.

ENEMIES OF MAKING THE POINT

1. A lack of transparency
2. Holding back an important comment
3. Refusing a necessary action
4. Letting harmful conduct slide
5. Avoiding accountability

WORTHY NOTE: If you have something worthwhile to say, say it. If something worthwhile needs doing, do it. Your point may then follow naturally—like a little puppy following you home.

MAKING A POINT—THE NO-NO’S

1. Judging or condemning someone, especially in secret
2. Using your point as a weapon to harm another
3. Repeating the same point until nobody can hear it anymore
4. Insisting on a point that never had a point

Making a point is not permission to be cruel. Truth can be clear without becoming a club.

A GOOD POINT

When someone states a thought clearly, brings it full circle and helps others understand, I like to say:

Point well made.

Some people think quickly on their feet. Others need more time and encouragement. When I do not understand someone’s point, I may repeat what I believe they meant.

Then one of three things happens:

1. “No, that isn’t my point.”
2. They receive another opportunity to explain it.
3. They understand their own point more clearly and finally make it.

That is not failure. That is communication doing its work.

TEST THE POINT SYSTEM

Imagine a world where everyone talks but nobody communicates—blabbering without rhyme, reason or responsibility.

Now imagine refusing to improve because correction hurts your pride.

Crazy-making, yes?

PAUSE FOR CAUSE

Before your next important conversation, ask:

• What am I really trying to say?
• Does it need to be said?
• Can I say it clearly?
• Can I say it kindly?
• Will it help—or merely make noise?

PEARLS INSIGHT

A strong point does not need endless words. It needs honesty, purpose and enough kindness to be received.

RICHIE SPEAKS

What was the point of this posting?

Hopefully, I made mine.

Because if there was no point, after all these words, I would be—well—pointless.

— Richie
Pearls for the Soul
when you feed the soul, you feed everything.
https://pearlsforthesoul.com