Listening

TODAY'S QUOTE:
"One of the best ways to persuade others is with your ears--by listening to them.".... Dean Rusk

Listening is an art form each of us should make a determined effort to master. Doing it well certainly does not come naturally to everyone. This world overflows with unsealed lips... but open ears that are not attached to a flapping mouth are rare. Most people are all too willing to offer some kind of advice, assuming I suppose that when a friend or loved one opens up they are seeking a recommended course of action. Few simply listen, even though most often that is all anyone really requires of us, unless clearly stated otherwise. Voice boxes are a dime a dozen, but ear drums are priceless.

The next time you are called upon to play the role of sounding board, let that person vent their frustration without any attempt to direct their actions with suggestions they do not ask for. Unless you are answering a question no comment is required. If they do not ask something then pause for a response it is destructive to the natural flow of their release of stress when you comment. Capping a volcano is a dangerous undertaking.

Listen to what they say and how it is said. Take note of tone of voice, tint of face, stance of body, paying special attention to what the eyes say that the mouth does not. There is so much more to proper listening than simply hearing what reaches your ear. You may have something to say, which they need to hear, but leave any comments unsaid until their mouth is empty and their ears are tuned in. Taking turns is mandatory.

You will notice that they dig much deeper into whatever issue is on their mind and often come up with the perfect answer on their own. When comments get tossed in it stops any train of thought from getting them to a sane destination. You will end up knowing them much better by hearing whatever is really being said. They will also gain more soul-deep knowledge and strength that way than they ever would otherwise.
Simply save your breath and exercise your ears whenever possible. And as always... think about it... let it grow... then decide!!!