While driving back home after visiting with my parents today, I heard an interesting saying shared by Scott on K-LOVE (one of the DJ’s): “It is better to sit and look stupid than to talk and sound stupid”.
This reminded me of James 1:19-20 …let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath; for the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God.
With all of the ways we have to share information in the digital age, we can send information quicker and to a larger audience than any time in the history of mankind. Being slow to speak is more important than ever before.
Red Dog Garage 
Great post!
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Thanks Andy!
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I know it as “It is better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to speak and remove all doubt.” I learned it from a Simpsons episode in which it is said to Homer and he thinks ‘Better say something quick or they’ll think you’re stupid!’ and he blurts out “Takes one to know one!”
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I’m sure there are many variations. If we are honest with ourselves, we all suffer from speaking too quickly at one time or another…maybe more.
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You’re so right Patrick, this problem has become much greater in the digital age. Now not only can we speak quickly, but we can do it without ever having to face others.
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Nancy,
I had not considered that aspect. I use email very carefully and even fewer text messages. Many times after receiving an email that left me wondering, I have taken the time to go talk with the sender. Where I work that can mean an opportunity for a one mile walk…an opportunity to get moving!
Patrick
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If more people practiced your approach there would be a whole lot less workplace conflict, Patrick. It took me a lot of years (and one great mentor) to realize that the best thing I can do after receiving a pointed missive in my inbox is to step away from my laptop and breathe. Don’t respond while emotions are high.
Your approach is that much better. Kudos to you for your patience and cool head.
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This was learned on the road of hard knock. The walk gives me time to think and calm down. If the distance is not long enough I take the senic route.
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If only I could learn that when I am talking. I tend to engage the mouth before the brain even is awake.
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Pete,
You are not alone. If I had a dollar for every time I suffered this problem, I would have a lot more tools. Thanks for joining the conversation!
Patrick
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