I use this little “speech test” with my kids, but I definitely need to work on all three of these in my own speech. Especially the necessary part.
So often when we speak unnecessarily, we reveal our own little pride issues. St. Josemaria has some good tips for unnecessary speech.
- Thinking that what you do or say is better than what others do or say
- Arguing when you are not right or–when you are–insisting stubbornly or with bad manners
- Giving your opinion without being asked for it, when charity does not demand that you do so
- Despising the point of view of others
- Mentioning yourself as an example in conversation
- Speaking badly about yourself so that others may form a good opinion of you–or so that they may contradict you with praise
- Letting drop words of self-praise in conversation, or words that might show your honesty, your wit or skill, or your professional prestige
Parents can’t give to their children what they don’t themselves have. Ah, humility. I’m working on it. Heck, I am the Humble Handmaid. How’s that for positive thinking?
St. Josemaria, pray for us!
Good one!