If you have been around the MMM for very long, you know my passion for listening. It is likely the most discussed topic in this blog. Stephen Covey talks about how we only listen for the sake of being heard. We really don’t listen at all, because we are too busy planning what we are going to say next. Listening is a lost art. It requires effort. Unfortunately, we do not have the time or temperament to put in the effort these days.
Addressing
the political and racial divides facing this country requires work. We must take the time to understand one
another, to listen to varying viewpoints and different opinions. Listening
requires understanding, it does not mean we have to change our opinion. It
feels like we are afraid that if we take the time to listen, and truly
understand, that we will be forced to change our mind about something. Understanding does not require agreement, but
it does require listening.
It is
too easy to hide behind the keyboard on social media or hop on the latest wave
of hysteria without taking the time to listen and learn. Listening is a
powerful tool. It makes you a better
person, it helps you broaden your perspective. More importantly is the feeling it
gives to the one speaking. There is
nothing more powerful you can do than to listen genuinely and intently to
another human. We all want to be
heard. Take some time to be the one
doing the listening, not just the one talking.
God
gave us two ears and one mouth. We
should use them in that ratio. Listen….
