Kelly - Proverbs 15

vv. 1, 4, and 18 today....

In school I learned about the importance of a "detatched presence" - useful in many leadership positions. It basically means that in conflict situations - it is important for the leader to be fully present, but not get wrapped up in the emotions of the situation. When someone is yelling, our natural response is to respond emotionally - either defensively, or by yelling back, or by adamantly agreeing - all responses that are heavy with emotion. The Detatched Presence recognizes that growing emotion, steps back, and responds to the situation calmly.

Sounds good - but it wasn't until I had kids that I learned to really put that into practice. While I had played the role of the detatched presence professionally - it was easier then. My emotions weren't as vulnerable as they proved to be with my kids. When a door is slammed in my face by one of my kids - it is very easy to get extremely emotional. I am hurt, I am angry, I want respect...the list goes on. Learning to respond to the situation without my emotions leading me headfirst into who knows what has been one of my greatest lessons of parenthood.

A Gentle Answer turns away wrath (v. 1). The tongue that brings healing is the Tree of Life (v. 4 - some interesting thoughts here on the power of speech in creation and the role of the Trees in Eden). A patient [woman] calms a quarrel (v. 18).