It’s certainly my hope that my words are skillful. Whether they’re spoken or written.
Some of the synonyms for skillful are: masterly, proficient, talented, and practiced.
The word that sticks out most to me is “practiced”.
I may have talents, but I must also practice to become proficient.
And practice is a choice. An investment of time and perhaps other resources. If I continue to practice, maybe mastery can be achieved.
But the emotionless definition of skillful doesn’t convey the more important meaning.
It isn’t enough to be skillful at words if they aren’t kind, honest, caring, and gentle.
In order to be doctors, medical students must take an oath to do no harm.
Imagine how much better the world would be if humans were required to take the same oath to become a human being.
After all, isn’t that the definition of humane? Kind, honest, caring, and gentle.
Practicing to become skillful doesn’t just apply to speaking and writing.
What do you choose to practice – and how do you make progress?
Skill Takes Practice – What do you choose to practice and how do you make progress? Share on XJoni Vance is an award-winning author of fiction, essay, and poetry. She loves mystery, history, and how God reveals Himself every day.
May God reveal the mystery of His love in your life story.
You have the most interesting post that make me really have to think. I love that! I think the thing I have to practice the most is being obedient to God’s Word. So that takes a constant studying of the scriptures, reflection, making changes in my thoughts and actions. I always look forward to your post so much. When I finally get to sit down to read them, I’m like… I wonder what Joni has today… I know it is going to be good:)
Thanks for sharing and I’m glad my posts are helpful. I appreciate your comments and support.
I probably practice my writing more than anything else.
Me, too! And practice means progress! Thanks for reading and commenting.