TONE

“Ugh...Stop...Stop the noise...that sounds terrible” my brothers said the first day I brought my clarinet home.  There were lots of whining and complaints. No applause for me that day.

The first time I heard the low register of the clarinet, I knew it was the instrument for me. It wasn’t shiny or sparkling, but playing it for the first time became a special memory. Learning to play came easily to me. I just couldn't put it down. 

Unfortunately, my brothers didn’t share in my enthusiasm. I admit. I probably didn’t sound great. For those who have ever heard a beginning clarinetist, you would certainly share their sentiment. However, after years of practicing and ultimately achieving professional status, I obviously improved. Turns out one of the best aspects of my playing is the very special "tone" I achieve on my instrument. As I progressed, I learned to become aware of every note and make each have a sound pleasant to the ears.

What about you? Are you aware of your “tone” ?

Although I’m not proud of it, I am sometimes guilty of setting a bad tone. I’ve watched those I work with and those I love affected. Much like that first night when my brothers didn’t like the tone of my clarinet. 

I’ve also been on the receiving end. I've heard that tone that makes you want to crawl under your covers. Paralyzing. Demoralizing. Tempting shame. If you're not aware it's them, you may think it's all your fault. Maybe it is, but their demonstrated tone escalates whatever it is you might have done wrong into epic proportions.  

When you get a firm grasp on who you are in Christ –a sinner saved eternally by grace who continues to work through salvation with fear and trembling (Phil. 2:12) - you recognize when someone else’s tone belongs to them. Admit it. You've reacted that way too.  The kind response is to give them mercy. Giving them the benefit of the doubt even though they don't deserve it. Who knows. Maybe they are frustrated, stressed or feeling unheard. Or just had a fight with their spouse, are swamped at work or something more serious on their mind. 

If we are to truly apply “Love your neighbor as yourself” we need to remember that when we are the on the receiving end of a bad “tone” we may want to re-consider the times when we’ve had a bad tone. A kind, loving response could actual set a completely different tone. 

A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.

Proverbs 15:1

When she speaks she has something worthwhile to say,

and she always says it kindly.

Proverbs 31:26

Now go out there, and make some noise !