PLAIN SPEECH (UNRELATED TO QUAKERISM)

[Zeke-USA]

May an American please answer this? Because the forms taken by arrogance vary from one culture to another.

I'd like to avoid language that tends to show a lot of airs. I angst over sounding arrogant while talking about my achievements. Thankfully, I don't need to worry much because I'm still at the age where I'm supposed to speak when spoken to while the adults are talking, which certainly shows humility.

 

[Magenta]

Welcome!

 

[Bingo]

The integrity of the heart comes in different ages. The new age of wireless
communication has surely left the new millennium with a wealth of information.
A cultural difference that often may not coincide with the "older generation."

 

[Dino246]

May an American please answer this? Because the forms taken by arrogance vary from one culture to another.

I'd like to avoid language that tends to show a lot of airs. I angst over sounding arrogant while talking about my achievements. Thankfully, I don't need to worry much because I'm still at the age where I'm supposed to speak when spoken to while the adults are talking, which certainly shows humility.

I'd refrain from answering... if there were a question.

There is no place in Scripture teaching a young person to "speak only when spoken to", so you can dismiss that as an outdated dinosaur from a "classist" culture. Scripture does instruct younger people to treat older people with respect, but it's a learned skill, and you may find some older people get offended despite your best effort to avoid doing so. Let them. Typically, those who are so easily offended will offend and seek to restrict you without any misgivings.

There are few places where it is appropriate to speak of your own achievements... and don't fall into the trap of "humble-bragging" either. Don't raise the subject, but if someone happens to ask about your achievements, then answer briefly and honestly without any exaggeration. It's better to let others praise you (Proverbs 27:2).

 

[Zeke-USA]

There is no place in Scripture teaching a young person to "speak only when spoken to", so you can dismiss that as an outdated dinosaur from a "classist" culture. Scripture does instruct younger people to treat older people with respect, but it's a learned skill, and you may find some older people get offended despite your best effort to avoid doing so. Let them. Typically, those who are so easily offended will offend and seek to restrict you without any misgivings.

I’m sorry, but I believe in it… ironically It may help kids learn from adults by listening, but I’m not interested in a debate.

Anyway, thanks for the feedback!