Did he mean what I think he meant, or what you think he meant?
Ah, the joys and perils of Nextdoor, the neighborhood app where cars are reported stolen, favors are requested, and bickering abounds. It drives some people nuts, but I happen to (for the most part!) appreciate the information and thoroughly enjoy the snarky comments that always show up.
This week, a very interesting post appeared. If you are fascinated by communication missteps, as I am, you’ll appreciate the back and forth the post caused.
It was a gentleman simply trying to do a light-hearted post as if he was Kris Kringle. He talked about his old vehicle, his age and obesity, which causes him to wear the same clothes over and over, how he only makes occasional appearances at malls, will be out all night on Christmas, you get the picture.
Here is where it went a bit off kilter – the note started with him saying he is a very lonely senior, and ends by suggesting we remember the lonely seniors out there. Depending on where you are in life or where you work, or perhaps what bit of the note you glazed over – it was either an obvious light-hearted post or a serious cry for help.
People responded with laugh emoji’s, compliments on the cleverness, but also messages of encouragement and offers of support and services. As the comments pointed out, he signed it Kris Kringle, and he even came back on to say he was just intending a light note. But not everyone caught that. The responses then turned to pointing out how loneliness among seniors is a very real problem that should not be dismissed.
Wow! This poor guy is just trying to do some creative writing and share it with his neighbors! What a mix-up. And how interesting to see the responses. Each person came to the story with their own baggage – as we do! And as a result, that one note meant something different to each reader, depending on their perspective – as we do!
It’s a good reminder to keep in mind the perspective of the recipient of our communication. It will greatly impact how your message lands in their mind. And to remember we have no control over that, we just have to be aware and try our best, just like Kris.
Curious to see the note? Of course, here it is, and Merry Christmas to all!
Dear Next-door,
As a senior living here in winter I feel very lonely. I'm a night Owl and don't get out much during the day, except for an occasional appearance at a shopping mall. I feel sad that I can't find work because of my age and obesity. I'm so depressed that I don't even change my clothes. I wear the same thing every day. My vehicle is so old, it constantly needs to be towed. Next Sunday I plan to leave my house and not return until sunrise. I'm going to give away everything I have in my shoppe. If you've been good maybe you will hear me on your rooftop. Just remember Christmas time can be hard for seniors.
Love, Kris Kringle.
AKA. Santa