Breath

Psalm 27 has these words:
.........those who breathe out violence.

Those who breathe out violence. Whilst I am not sure that the author means body language - that is what this set me off thinking about today. We do not have to say anything to project anger and violence to those around us - breath give us life but the way we inhale and exhale can send messages too. When we sigh, when we puff out our cheeks, when we blow out our breath. Our posture, the way we enter into things and engage in things is important.

I remember many years ago, in the middle of a youthwork training session, it was pointed out to me that I was slouching in my chair. Apparently I was looking, not only bored, but also as if I did not want to be there. I had no idea and although it was not an easy lesson it did teach me that we can very easily give off silent messages and if we are not careful messages which we have no intention of giving.

Our breath and posture say so much about who we are and what we think about the reality of our message. A frowning person telling people that God loves them is incongruous. A person with their arms crossed tightly talking about reconciliation makes little sense.

do we breathe anger and violence or are we pulling from a deeper well - one of justice and peace?