October 29, 2023
Many encounters we call conversations are really just mutual monologues. I regret having had these times with people. So to frame all that has just been said about questions, let’s wrap this up – and around- with some thoughts about the power of listening.
From poet Yahia Lababidi...
“A good listener is one who helps us overhear ourselves.”
From Roy T. Bennett...
“When we listen with curiosity, we don’t listen with intent to reply. We listen for what’s behind the words.”
From G.K. Chesterton...
“There’s a lot of difference between listening and hearing.”
From Brene Brown...
“If we can share our story with someone who responds with empathy and understanding, shame can’t survive.”
From Alfred Brendel...
“The word ‘listen’ contains the same letters as the word ‘silent.’”
From me...
At this stage of my life, part of the challenge in listening is that my abundant life is full of so many stories, experiences and wisdom that when someone starts sharing something, I long to jump in with a comment from my life. So my listening needs a filter of this question: “Will what I want to share really help or give joy?”
So even skilled listening seems to need a question! And I do not always remember this filter. Lord, help me!
