Heart Pocket Word for the Day is Discreet!

Artwork by harryandhelen

The word from my heart pocket is Discreet.

It takes a moment to be discreet. It requires a pause and if there's time, it requires thinking. 

To be discreet is to be cautious, civil, circumspect and at its best, considerate. 

Discretion is often wise and as in all things, can be misused to become manipulation.

The act of being discreet causes us to stop in our tracks and consider the consequences. We cannot help but put ourselves in the mix, and it truly helps to consider everyone involved. 

We are discreet when we think about what we are saying. We are discreet when we look before we leap. We are discreet when we gather facts and when we imagine a scenario to the end. It is wise to imagine completely. If passion is involved, our imaginations are capable of clouding our judgment. Discretion requires 360-degree thinking. Take your time when passion is present.

Discretion serves us best when it is considerate. That is, we look at a situation and we think of everyone involved. Not to be discounted, feelings can muddy the discretionary waters. Feelings must be acknowledged on every side and then put on the shelf for a moment. To be discreet is to utilize reason, to act temperately. When we apply consideration - no matter how upset, angry, hurt or righteous we feel - the picture becomes clearer. Our judgment comes from understanding and from a broader perspective. Discretion is not intended to change one's opinion or cool one's passion. It brings depth to the story, perspective to the painting. It causes us to take responsibility for our actions. To be discreet is to be mature.

Be careful not to use discretion as an excuse. This is classic manipulation. We are courageous when we own our choices. We are cowardly when we don't mean what we say, hiding behind some sort of "virtue". If you don't know, express it. When you don't understand, say "I don't understand." If a situation needs more information, get it - and make sure it is complete.

To be completely discreet is to listen with a full heart. Listening is the greatest attribute of someone who practices discretion. Kindness comes forward when we truly listen. We choose different words when we have understanding. We unclench our fists when we hear what is really being said. We connect when we listen and we are more likely to emerge triumphant when we are fully discreet.

This day, take opportunities to be discreet. Sharpen your listening skills. Let yourself feel the warmth of kindness. Connect with someone ... discreetly.