When we talk to text, we state the period to place it in the message. We also use it to make a point, such as, “And that’s it. Period!” It’s a literal point to emphasize something definitive. While we say period, we use more of an exclamation point tone. And there’s another punctuation we need to consider.

The ellipsis.

We want to end a declarative statement, when we might need to consider a condition or temporary status. There are options and possibilities. There are potential changes. We want to state it as we see it, or at least as we want it. And there are definitely some truths we can rely on with a period or even an exclamation point. They are short sentences, because as soon as we begin to add words, we introduce the possibilities that can be challenged.

It’s okay to be certain. It’s also okay to leave room for questions and change.

We generally don’t do well with the ellipsis, because it’s open-ended. Where does it go? Where will it end? What mess will we make? Who will we invite? All these questions are sort of the point—or series of points—in the ellipsis. We prefer to stand firm. We want to have the final answer. Challenges to what we claim make us nervous and defensive. Sometimes we snap. Sometimes we walk away. Sometimes we blame or demean others.

All because we want a period where an ellipsis can go.

An ellipsis invites conversation. It makes room for a pause. It allows for collaboration and connection. It leaves the door open, and that door can not only take us somewhere new but can impact the temperature of the room we’re already in. It doesn’t wipe out what comes before it, although that’s often our fear. What comes after it can be confirming and clarifying.

The ellipsis can’t be a punctuation crutch. We need more. But we need to use it more than we do. Invite the ellipsis into your day today.

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