Have you met a “toxic talkie” ?
Some of these people are obviously toxic – their language is full of swear words laced with anger. But there are others who are not so obvious. These are the people we have let into our lives, and then over time we come to realize that their lengthy conversations leave us with a bad “taste” in our mouth !
Subtle negative comments, self centeredness and insensitivity to your own needs become warning signs. Sometimes these people will push into your life with shallow caring words to draw you in, only to find out later that they had their own agenda.
Many times these people have had past hurts, and are looking for someone who will listen to them. Perhaps they have chosen you, but that does not mean that you must take responsibility for their feelings and moods. You can still show you care, and at the same time set healthy boundaries for yourself.
Personally I rely on my “ten minute timeline” for toxic talkies ! Usually within the first ten minutes the conversation can stay somewhat healthy. It gives you time to offer words of encouragement and then end the conversation before it becomes tainted.
“A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver.” (Prov. 25:11)
Let our words be the “tonic” for the “toxic” !
