Ah, Brevity.
What a treat, a cool drink on a stifling August day.
We each have endured sermons that dragged on and on, the classroom lecture from which only the bell could rescue and meetings without structure or end. Whew!
I was first introduced to the above quote by my high school English teacher, Mr. Baker. He signed my year book with Shakespeare’s quote and added: “you are brief.” I attempt to
apply those words in many aspects. Thank you Mr. B.
Clown acts, speeches, writings all were/are revised and trimmed, only the essentials to remain. A distillation of ideas, an economy of words, is the goal.
Jim Rohn says it best of all: “Jesus the master teacher said: 'Follow me.' That's brief! And He was able to do that because of all that He was that He didn't have to say."
Many times we listen to someone’s babbling, telling us much more than they know.
If I catch myself trying to make up for, in words, what I lack in being I know it’s time to get back to work on me.
In giving advice on public speaking, F.D.R., our 32nd President, applying his own council said:
“Be sincere, be brief, be seated.”
I’ll sit down now.
I would love to hear your thoughts.
mj
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Hi Marc,
ReplyDeleteWe've waited too long to write our gratitude for your creativity and willingness to share. Every artist I've ever known is the same -- and you are an artist to be sure -- in that we all like feedback.
To say it simply, Myrna and I love what you do with your writing and that you're willing to take time to do it. You reflect in your words a gentle spirit, the kind we remember in your daddy and mom, the kind we see in your brother and sister as well as an intelligence an a willingness (maybe even craving) to grow and learn. That's admirable and very much appreciated by at least one of your Denver cousins and her partner, both of whom look forward to spending time with you and other family in October. Way to go!
Vickie