The Sound of Conscious Speaking

When I'm being present with another person in conversation, I choose an open and steady physical posture, listen attentively without an agenda or judgment, and make sure the words I say are true and kind. With increasing awareness, I am learning to complete the communication by paying attention to the sound of my spoken voice too — tone, resonance, volume, and melodic inflection — and what that sound conveys. As it turns out, it doesn’t take a lot of effort, just a moment of remembering to take a full breath. Then, I let the sound ride on top of the air, just as I have learned to do when singing a song. When I do, my spoken words resonate with the same loving intention reflected in my presence and the meaning of the words I say. Each conversation becomes more musical and meaningful as I speak and listen more consciously.