Have you ever heard someone say, “I couldn’t get a word in edgewise”? This usually means someone else dominated the conversation, leaving no room for them to speak or share their thoughts.

You’ve probably heard that communication is a lot like a game of catch. If I throw the ball to you, I expect you to throw it back—or at least try. The same idea applies when we’re talking to other people. A conversation flows best when both people take turns.

Not everyone understands how conversations work. Some people hog the ball, dominating every moment and leaving others feeling overlooked or frustrated. Hogging the ball isn’t fun for anyone, and it’s certainly no way to keep others engaged.

On the flip side, some people avoid the ball entirely. They dodge it or refuse to catch it—often out of shyness or fear of saying the wrong thing. But that fear can lead to missed opportunities to connect, learn, and share your own perspective.

The key is balance: throw the ball, catch the ball. It’s a conversation, not a monologue.

Today’s “Peace of Wisdom” can be found when you join the conversation.