What If The Private Conversations in Your Relationship Were Shared? – Jackie Bledsoe

This past weekend there was an uproar about a private conversation between an NBA team owner, Donald Sterling, and his “girlfriend.” It has been a hot topic. Mr. Sterling revealed some of his deep rooted beliefs related to the society we live in, and how he feels about other races.

The comments were very racially insensitive and very offensive to many people of all races. There is a ton that could be said about that, but instead of going on a rant about his comments, I want use to that private conversation to look at our relationships deeper.

The conversation that was revealed was a conversation which Mr. Sterling never would have imagined would be shared for the world to hear. Had he known that I’m certain what he said would be different. But since he thought it was private he revealed his true feelings and beliefs.

What if the private conversations in your relationship were shared with the world?

Just imagine that. Imagine the conversations you have behind closed doors with those closest to you. Conversations with your spouse and with your kids.

What would those conversations reveal about you as a spouse or as a parent?

As someone who writes to help others better lead and love those who matter most, I often think about this. If some of my private conversations with my wife or kids were recorded and shared with the world, you may not read my writing.

I would be ashamed of some of my private conversations

To be honest, sometimes I’m just plain embarrassed about what I say and the things I do. This has nothing to do with Donald Sterling, nor does it have to do with race. In private we are who we are. There is no face, no act, no playing politics. And sometimes those private conversations reveal our flaws.

I want that private, true me, to be something I’m proud of if anyone else got a glimpse of it. I want it to be known that I love my wife like Christ loved the church. I want it to be known that I don’t provoke my children to anger, but I bring them up with discipline and instruction from the Lord.

Would you be ashamed of your private conversations?

So in light of the Donald Sterling topic, is your private life, private conversations, and relationships behind closed doors something you’d be proud of if other people heard them? Or would they bring embarrassment, and shame to you and your family?

If the latter is true, then it’s time to make some changes. The bible teaches that none of us are perfect, but perhaps thinking from a different perspective can help us better live a life that we’d be proud of publicly and privately.

Have you ever done or said something to your spouse or kids that you wish you could take back? Please share in the comment section below.