Listening is a great time to practice. When we are in conversation with others, when we are listening, it is a perfect time to observe what the mind is doing. If it is present and truly listening, it will be digesting the speaker’s words/thoughts from a neutral place. Not thinking of how their story relates to us. Not thinking of a really good response. Not deciding whether or not we agree or disagree with them. It is simply a vast space where information can enter, and through a still reception, a response may or may not formulate. The key is to simply listen, to be present within the exchange, and to observe what the mind is doing. The Lost Art of Listening by Michael Nichols is a pretty good read. I wouldn’t have thought that an entire book could be written on listening, but he is right on.
January 2, 2009 at 10:06 am
Very timely post, Molly. My wife and I talked this morning for over an hour and I watched my mind continually debate, rephrase, defend, and otherwise not listen. Of course, when I have the courage to “out” the debate, rephrasing, defensiveness, etc., then the conversation can become even more intimate. Wish I were that courageous more often.
January 2, 2009 at 1:00 pm
Very good advice … I need the practice as I am far too impatient.
January 2, 2009 at 1:39 pm
Great post, Molly! I think this world would a little bit better place if we could just listen more wholeheartedly? Thank you, Molly for the fabulous reminder.
With palms together,
Uku
January 2, 2009 at 4:36 pm
Barry I wish I were that courageous more often as well. Thanks for your insight.
Peace, Molly
January 2, 2009 at 4:37 pm
Uku, I agree. Let us keep practicing and reminding one another!
Peace,
Molly
January 4, 2009 at 8:29 pm
i work at a nursing home. I think i should come from a place of listening in my work.
January 5, 2009 at 10:46 am
“A good listener is not only popular everywhere, but after a while, he also learns something”
Good post and thanks for your encouragement to listen more.
Destination Infinity
January 5, 2009 at 11:04 am
DI,
love the quote. Thanks for stopping by. And love the name of the blog
Peace to you,
Molly
January 5, 2009 at 11:04 am
Carrie,
Wouldn’t it be helpful if we all did??
Peace to you,
Molly