Sometimes focus seems so easy. Even when I haven’t prepared for a test. Other times, I’ve studied diligently to no avail. Today I had a quiz on vocab and Greek paradigms. For one, I didn’t study all the appropriate memory paradigms, but more important than that, I didn’t pay attention to the question on the quiz. Once I looked at the question the answer came to mind, however, I had to turn in the quiz. Times up.!
I went through period of self-loathing and lamented the poor effort. Back to basics. Read the question before you answer it. This circled through my mind for most of the afternoon, yet I also thank God for this happening, for it brought to mind something I struggle with not only on tests but also in listening to people. Have you ever had someone finish a sentence for you when you were ready to answer. O how this is one of my pet peeves! In all sincerity, I do the very same thing to others. People who have a more deliberate delivery in everyday conversation provide just enough of a gap to allow the quick thinker (or one who likes to interject) to say what they want. Usually, this goes on while the person is talking, and then the quick reply comes out.
I am a slow thinker in most respects, careful to form the words I want to say. Sometimes, thoough, this is a way to avoid saying something I might regret. Because it remains unspoken does not take away the intent of my heart. At times, when i speak at a faster rate, it is just the opposite of my normal speech pattern. I pray that people would be more apt to listen rather than wanting to be heard. I need this reminder for myself as well.
Communication is directly related to how we listen, intrepret and respond to others. Listening is not easy. That ought to be a given, but its hard to realize-especially when thoughts are focused elsewhere. So next week I have another quiz and then a final. Maybe this time I’ll slow down and read the question instead of fearing a poor grade.
