When someone else is speaking,
how often do you truly focus
all of your attention,
pausing your inner monologue
to actually absorb
what they are saying?
Do you actively try
to understand them
and really open yourself
to the spirit of their words,
welcoming their feelings?
Do you receive
their point of view with care,
and patiently consider their perspective?
Honestly, very often as “listeners”
we are doing anything
BUT listening.
Pay close attention
the next time
you’re in conversation:
check to see if you have
only have one ear open.
Ironically, I find this habit
is even more acute
with our family members
and close friends.
We are often
readying a quip,
a comeback, a tease,
a challenge or an argument.
When hearing stories
“for the millionth time”
or topics we disagree with,
we rush to judgment or frustration.
We roll our eyes, disengage,
feel sleepy, tune out
or even walk away.
These familiar ways
of relating are so ingrained,
we have to expend real effort
to catch our habits.
Letting go of our own agendas
and the natural human tendency
to focus on “me”
requires mindfulness and humility.
Solstice is a place
where over and over families can practice…
Listening.
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