You said what? -- The problem with global communication.

Recent events in missions at Mt. Carmel have made me realize how terribly important communication and understanding of culture is. When communicating with those from a different culture let me offer a few random thoughts:

1) Try to anticipate potential delays in reply. The person with whom you are communicating may not always get/give you a reply in the time frame you think is acceptable.

2) Recognize that honesty is still the best policy. Rather than try to alter your original comments, admit what you said and then work to explain.

3) Speak the truth in love. ALWAYS, ALWAYS, ALWAYS!

4) Don't be afraid of confrontation. That which seems confrontational may in fact be a search for clarity, or may be necessary.

5.) Speak with humilty and extend grace whenever possible. Remember we all say things from time to time we shouldn't or wish we hadn't said.