A friend of mine and I recently chatted about the art of listening. We analyzed why a group of our new friends were unique in the way that they listened. We could all be in separate conversations and yet we knew what someone else from our group was saying. Even at a slight distance, our ears would pick up the sound of their voice and what they said. We didn't consciously choose; we almost couldn't help it.
Have you had people in your life like that? They have been rare in mine. I have many who hear me everyday, but few who take the time to listen. I've seen the vacancy in faces acknowleging my voice; their mind rushing through their own thoughts, ready for the next topic. I close my soul to them.
My friend and I likened the art of listening to someone picking up the end of a thread and following it to its source. In conversation, every sentence is just the tip of an iceburg. What is unsaid is fathoms deep compared with a comment. If you care about someone, you ache to know the depths of who they are. You are not content to take the face value. You don't want to just hear words, you want to hear them.
When was the last time someone listened to you, really listened? When was the last time you listened to someone else? Sometimes it comes as natural as breathing. Most of the time it takes effort. If you care about someone, savor not just the words they say, relish the person. This moment could be the last time you have to hear the sound of their voice, longings of their heart, whispers of their soul. Be still. Listen.
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