Courteous

I read once–don’t recall where–of researchers who in cooperation with the US Navy researched the effect of the voice as orders were given to the sailors. The results overwhelmingly showed the way a person is addressed determines largely how he responds.

If the orders were spoken softly, he would answer in a similar way. Same for shouts: Shouted at, he answered in the same rough way. It was also interesting that the results were much the same whether the communication came face-to-face or by telephone.

I’m attracted to people who are polite, kind and thoughtful. Not surprising, for the Bible tells us to be courteous, to care about each other, to be humble-minded, and to prefer each other. Kind of a neat way to live, huh?

Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous. I Peter 3:8

Edit: Just read on Facebook where Pastor James Groce posted this:

Rudeness is a weak man’s imitation of strength. – Eric Hoffer