Effective communication skills are important for everyone every day. Interview with a Communicator is a column I used to have here on Art of Eloquence many years ago to share how that works in the lives of different people around the world. Here is a recent interview I did with a Facebook friend, Tanya Art. Tanya leads a support group on Facebook she started three years ago. She encourages others, like herself, who deal with Fibromyalgia. She is an encouragement to others she calls Fibro Warriors. I find that most people think of communication only in terms of formal speech and debate so I asked Tanya what role does speech and debate play in her everyday life. I don't do a...
Every year around this time, I receive an inordinate number of private messages from Facebook friends about Breast Cancer Awareness. So many apparently see this as a fun way to promote a worthy cause, the elimination of breast cancer which affects many women, so why do I have such a problem with it? 1. It does NOT promote awareness. A few years ago I was asked to post the color of my bra. Another year I was asked to post where I like to keep my purse. This year I was asked to post a tiny heart symbol. You are ONLY supposed to post the answer, but not explain what it means--even when someone asks. Most people have no idea it has anything...
Last week I wrote part one of A Discouraging Word. This week, I'd like to share how we might more effectively handle those who have a discouraging word for us. 1. Smile and wave boys, just smile and wave This is a line from the penguins of Madagascar my son loves to watch, but it is also a great way to handle those who have an occasional discouraging word. If Ursula Uplift doesn't usually present a problem in this area, you might just want to smile and wave. Just brush it off. It's easier to do this with someone who doesn't always sing that tune. If you find that you are too tired to discuss the matter, you don't have...
Last week I shared part one of Should Your Child Be on Facebook? I shared the benefits of allowing your older child to have a Facebook account. I'll bet there were some things that surprised you, weren't there? Well, this week, I might surprise you again when I share the drawbacks and even the dangers of having your child on Facebook. One big Facebook No No is if your child is under age. Don’t start too young. Facebook rules say you have to be 13 to create an account. The only way around this is if you lie. I've met some parents--even Christian parents--who tell me they allow their 11 year old children to misrepresent their age to Facebook in...
Some say Facebook is a blessing allowing you easily to keep in touch with friends and family, meet like-minded people, help you find a job or even market your business. Others say Facebook is a waste of time and, too easily, an invasion of your privacy. I say Facebook is a tool, a communication tool, much like email, the cell phone and your mouth. What you get out of it often depends upon your input, expectations and most of all, how you use it. But is it a good idea for your children? In this article I’m going to share the benefits and drawbacks of allowing your children to have a Facebook account. Due to the length of this article,...
