There are some people that I just don’t like; something about them irritates me.  Some even promote ideas that I consider to be despicable and immortal.  That doesn’t mean they are unlovable and it doesn’t mean that we should become best friends. What does matter is that we recognize that we are all human beings and that is reason enough to treat each other with respect.

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If I actually asked you to “Make me feel important”, it would sound like I was weird.  Also, if I had to ask, nothing you said in return would sound sincere.   Still, the desire to be important is a basic part of human nature.  If you want to be a leader, read that invisible sign.  When you make someone feel important, that person will become more willing to follow you.

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Just because our politicians aren't following their our advice during the discussions of economic issues, doesn't mean that we shouldn't.  It is exactly when we are addressing issues where any solution involves pain to at least some of the people involved that we should be most responsive to the views of others and most careful in our choice of words.
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Whenever we are pretending to be somebody we’re not, we are acting out a lie.  That invariably creates stress.  The internal fear of being found out will drive us toward protecting our image, instead of enjoying our company.  Putting on a false front will either turn us into bullies, or make us easy targets for other bullies.

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The message that I get from a person who is cussing is that he is too angry to be thinking straight.  Why would anyone heed the words of someone who isn’t thinking straight?

No matter how much someone irritates me, if I want my ideas to be understood, I need to choose words that will build a bridge connecting that person to me.  If I sound like a thoughtful friend, he will listen and consider what I have to say (unless he is too angry to be thinking straight).

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