Shall we be blunt and direct in speaking?

Shall we express our thought in a straightforward manner? Does having a straightforward mind mean saying what is in our mind directly?


31686116887 1765ee35bf o(Photo by Chen Ya Yin) 

Questions: What is the meaning of “spiritual practice takes place in a straightforward mind”? Is it about expressing our thoughts in a straightforward manner?

The Master answered:

A person with a straightforward mind speaks with kindness; he is attentive, cautious, and tactful when communicating with people. A straightforward person can also elucidate the other party's good intentions even if the other party speaks unkindly.

Everyone is kind in nature. Some people speak in hurtful languages due to their habitual tendency. However, these hurtful behaviours are not their true nature. A person who practices spiritually in a straightforward mind will not be annoyed or misinterpret the good intention of a person who unintentionally speaks unpleasant words. Forgive those who unintentionally hurt us, and do not be a person who is easily hurt by others.

In communication, we must not bluntly call the person’s full name when we address someone because it is rude. If we politely address someone, what follows is a smooth and pleasant conversation exchange. Thus, we must be careful with how we address the other party when starting a conversation; doing it right can prevent interpersonal conflict.