"Imagine the potential if we could create safe spaces in which people could be . . .?"

A thought by David Roberts from his book, Healing Conversation (p. 59). Moran James Publishing. Kindle Edition. (Click on the book title to go to Amazon to buy the book.)

That is a very good image to think about.

David says, "Imagine the potential if we could create safe spaces in which people could be vulnerable, heal from past wounds and learn to engage in meaningful conversation? What if, with our words and patience, we could open closed hearts, build trust, and help people feel liberation and joy at the prospect of talking honestly about their fears, thoughts, beliefs, hopes, and dreams? We could talk each other out of brokenness and isolation and into connection and wholeness. We could talk ourselves into some places in life that have yet to be built. We could talk ourselves into a renewed marriage, or a real understanding of our children. We could talk ourselves into politics that unite instead of divide. We could talk ourselves into a society that is fair and nurturing. We could talk ourselves into almost anything.

He goes on, "We could talk ourselves out of some things, too. We could talk ourselves out of anxiety or loneliness or depression. I am not saying we could use words to convince ourselves we are not anxious or lonely or depressed. I am saying we could use our words to build a bridge that allows us to move into connection with others and away from our lonely anxiety. We could use our words to bring light and hope to the inner parts of souls that are trapped in depression."

He then says, "When I really stop to consider the concept, I am moved by the thought that words really are those powerful building blocks that are the basis of all human interaction. We ought to respect and honor these little arrangements of letters for the mystical powers they possess. We ought to learn to use them wisely."

And that would be so great, wouldn't it? Yes, yes!

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