“And to another is given the interpretation of tongues.” (D&C 46:25). How often have we gotten into an argument with someone over something they said only for them to counter with that is not what I meant to say? Or, similarly, how often have we gotten into arguments because we either weren't listening properly or drew our own unwarranted conclusions about what they said? It is almost certain that one of the biggest causes of all conflicts is misunderstanding. We are all incredibly bad at conveying our precise meaning at least some of the time, and we can be even worse at picking up on all of the nuance and context of what someone else says to us. That is why the gift of interpretation of tongues is so vital. We may lack the skills or the experience or the natural ability to understand completely the true intentions behind what a person says to us, but if we have supernatural aid through the presence of the Holy Ghost and Divine aid from the Atonement of Jesus Christ, then we will be able to look past the poorly framed thoughts and the inexpertly selected words, and the confusing and contradicting tone and body language and see into the heart of the person with whom we are speaking. When we take the effort to truly understand them, then we invite the Spirit of peace instead of the Spirit of contention. How much different would the world be if we all tried a little harder to truly listen and sincerely seek to understand one another? I hope that we can all seek a little more earnestly for the gift of interpretation especially during this holiday season so that there may be peace on Earth and good will towards all men and women.
