Communication Breakdown

The last weekend of November marked a big game in the world of Friday Harbor High School sports. Our high school football team was playing in a state semi-final championship game. I was unable to make the 6 hour drive to eastern Washington, so I relied on periodic phone calls and internet updates for my game report.

At one point in the 4th quarter I received a call from my son Damon in New York who was getting regular score updates from one of his friend who attended the game. Damon reported the score as "35-21 Wolverines ahead." We were both ecstatic and I was dancing around the kitchen shouting, "we going to the Tacoma Dome, we are in the state championship baby."

I quickly called my dear friend Roberto to give him the update. Another shout went out over the phone as we celebrated together. My phone rang again. It was Damon. I figured to hear the "game over" call from him but instead he said; "Dad, I got the score reversed, it is Royal 35, Friday Harbor 21." Whoosh! It was like the air was rushing out of a popped balloon for me. I called my friend Roberto and he was equally deflated too.

A lesson learned, "be slow to speak, quick to listen ..." James 1:19 This "communication breakdown" reminded of how damaging thoughtless words can be, especially to relationships. One thing can lead to another, and left unchecked, a spider web of ill feeling can be created. Proverbs 18:6-7 says this: "A fool's lips bring him strife, and his mouth invites a beating. A fool's mouth is his undoing, and his lips are a snare to his soul."

We must be careful in our communication with our spouses, children, family members and friends, and oh yeah, when we are reporting sports scores long distance. (-: