Genuine listening means suspending memory, desire, and judgment — and, for a moment at least, existing for the other person. — Michael P. Nichols
This is all about being present and respecting the person, you are speaking to at that moment. I think if more of us (me included) practice listening, misunderstandings would be drastically reduced. How better to show respect and love (maybe like) for another human being, than taking a few moments of your day and concentrating on them. Every one loves / needs to be the center of some one’s attention at some time. The world needs people who care about each other or care about humanity, so that they will interact and listen to each other. Nothing every got solved or was bettered by not listening. Nothing else should be more important than that conversation for those few seconds. What is it going to hurt to try? Also, as an extra special bonus, just think you get to forget about your worries for a few moments – bliss for a few moments. I think we should all try listening in the "front and center" present. All your problems, worries, other thoughts, other voices etc will still be there when you are done, with no harm done, and in turn, you will have made some one feel special and important instead. Go ahead, just ask some one how they are doing and listen…
Today, I am grateful for having friends who will listen to me, care about me, will be there at a moment's notice and are only a phone call away.
Namaste
