Advice

Don't i just look like I am dispensing some sage wisdom?or maybe I just look bossy.

Why do we give advice?
I read a blog recently where a mom discussed her difficulty getting her son to sleep thru the night. Of course everyone in the whole world (myself included) gave our two cents. But when it came down to it, it was her own intuition and relationship with Heavenly Father that solved the problem, not the 400 pieces of advice she received.

So I began to think about when I give advice. Is it only when asked for? Is it when I just feel like I'm the biggest know it all on a subject? Do I give it reluctantly or jump at the chance? Do I ask for or accept advice myself?

After mulling it all over I came to the following conclusion: Unless someone specifically comes to me and says "I need help with this problem, can I ask your advice, give me your opinion" they really just want to share what's going on in their life. That person is not asking for anything other than to be listened to.

So why is it so difficult for me to shut up in these situations? Why do I insist on sharing my oh so "profound" thoughts on the matter?

Well, I think I figured it out. Secretly (imagine I'm whispering )I'm the smartest person in the world and I have the solution to every personal problem in existence. Don't tell anyone, ok? I don't want the secret out and end up with a line of advice seekers outside my door. I mean really, I don't have time to help EVERYONE.

So as a symbol of my good will toward men, I vow to not give unsolicited advice. I vow to listen patiently, trying not to fidget and squirm as I tongue tie myself and show amazing restraint in the keep it to yourself department.

So let it be written, so let it be done.