How matured are you?

"Maturity is the balance between courage and consideration.If a person can express his feelings and convictions with courage balanced with consideration for the feelings and convictions of another person, he is mature, particularly if the issue is very important to both parties." - STEPHEN R. COVEY

I came across this while reading one of his books and its struck me real hard. I pondered on it a while and realised to be a matured person takes a lot. Contrary to popular opinion, maturity does not necessarily come with age. A recent experience proved this. I was flabbergasted at the intellectual depth of a 21year old sista when her opinion was sought on a very controversial issue.

As humans, we are naturally selfish. This has got great effects on our ability to put a balance between courage and consideration. I am of the opinion that every person should be able to express their feelings at anytime but I strongly disagree with the idea of expressing one’s self without considering how it will affect the listener(s). Making the conscious effort to cushion our thoughts & opinions with soft, gentle words goes a very long way in maintaining good relationships with people.

Do something good today...express yourself with a little bit of consideration for the listening party!