Welcome to the Inspirational Living podcast.

Today's podcast has been edited and adapted from

The Man Who Pleases and the Woman Who Fascinates by John

Albert Cohn published in 1901

In all countries where intelligence is prized, a talent for conversation ranks high among accomplishments.

To clothe the thoughts in clear and elegant language, and to convey them impressively to the mind of another is no common attainment.

The man or woman who is an intelligent, tactful conversationalist commands one of the most essential

elements of a successful life.

While all of us may have certain defects which we cannot wholly overcome, however earnestly

we may try, we can, if we will, reform our conversation.

We can so train ourselves that good nature, consideration, and benevolence will always have a place

in our intercourse with others.

We can, if we will, use good English, and we can avoid the temptation so common

to talk of persons rather than of things.

Theoretically, we despise gossip,

but in practice, most of us add our might to the common fund.

We may not be ill-natured,

and the sweet charity that thinketh no evil

may have a home in our hearts. Yet sometimes if we are not

watchful, it may fall asleep, and bitterness or the spirit of spitefulness may come creeping

stealthily to the surface. We can, if we will, be intellectually honest, a kind of honesty which is indeed rare.

The principal reason why arguments and discussions lead to so much dissatisfaction and ill-feeling on the part of the disputants is the lack of this quality.

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