Say What You Mean

There are times when misunderstandings arise and one or the other person does not realize that what he or she said was not heard by the other person in the same way.  I'm sure there are times when someone said something to you and you heard the words differently than what the person actually said.  An easy way to keep from having hurt feelings or be offended is to repeat the remarks made and ask the person you are talking to if it is what they meant.  It is surprising how many times the answer you recieve is "No, that is not what I said" or "That's not what I meant".  This little moment to clarify the conversation can save many moments of anger, hurt, disappointment or other feelings from someone who is close to you or even a business relation.  "An injury is much sooner forgotten than an insult".  When a person is put on the defensibe they become a poor listener.  Before you react, clarify the words or the intent.  It can save countless moments of uncertainty or bad feelings.