Recently, I have realized that I am very sensitive to manipulation. The very concept of being manipulated by another infuriates me! I feel like this image…
And I am not sure where it all begun – maybe a childhood memory of my choice being taken from me only to be ‘convinced’ that another option would be better? Or maybe I simply reject the action of taking advantage of another person’s emotions. But one of the definitions of today’s word gave me a different sentiment…let’s explore!
Oxford Dictionaries defines elicit as:
evoke or draw out (a response, answer, or fact) from someone in reaction to one’s own actions or questions
Our thoughts impact our words…
Our words impact our actions…
Our actions impact our world.
And when we impact our world, we impact everyone in it! All we need to do is turn on the television to see how our world has changed as a result of a thought that gave birth to actions that elicit fear, hate and hopelessness. One person had a thought that went unfiltered and that created a reality that is very painful to watch.
BUT…
We have also seen examples of the results of thoughts that produced words of hope, love and unity. Random acts of kindness to a homeless veteran, a generous tip given to a well-deserving restaurant worker. If you tune your eyes and ears to love, you can see love responses elicited in daily interactions among everyday people.
So what will you do today? Elicit emotions from a place of control and fear…which will only create more of the same.
Or, will you choose to elicit love responses through your right thoughts, words and actions?
SET YOUR INTENTIONS AND CHOOSE WISELY!
Artisan of Peace 