| The UWA Study, Act and Inspire group (UWA-SAI) is launching 'Speak Softly and Lovingly Week'© from 23 to 30 November 2004 in order to create an awareness about speaking sensitively. Parents sometimes shout at children, teachers at students, employers at employees, etc. In each case, while being firm, we are also hurting the feeling of others. "A slip of the foot you may soon recover, But a slip of the tongue you may never get over." There is much truth in this quotation of Franklin. The scar from a fall heals quicker than the scar left by words that hurt. On the other hand, many of us also speak politely and respectfully in the presence of others just to win their favours or pleasing them. Speech involves a complex behavioral and neuropsychological process. The way we speak may be also related to our personality, culture and background. If this issue is examined analytically, there may not be a simple right or wrong answer at all. Nevertheless, it is extremely important to understand the appropriate tone of speech to use while communicating with others. Please come and actively participate in the lively discussion during our FREE PUBLIC SYMPOSIUM. |