Listening

Listening is an art, a spiritual practice. … Listening speaks to one of our deepest needs, to be understood or feel understood. Yes, we might like people to agree with us, take our side, but it is a great gift when we feel that the person understands us, even if the person does not agree with us. … Listening acknowledges and honor’s the other’s uniqueness with his or her own stories and truths. We each need to tell our story, and we each need to hear the other’s story. Being listened to provides the opening we need to tell our stories, to express feelings and ideas we would otherwise be afraid to voice.

- Thomas Porter, The Spirit and Art of Conflict Transformation

The above quote was a part of my e-devotional today. One of the things that I am trying to do is be a better listener in my life. I can often hear what people are saying just fine, but I don't always listen very well. I need to worry less about how I am going to respond to what people are saying and simply listen and be present for others. I want to listen like Jesus listened. While he knew what was really on the heart of those with whom he talked, he let them say the words. He didn't say the words for them. He listened and in the listening he built relationships and was able to be fully present in that moment to whomever was speaking. I want to be that kind of listener.
I'm headed to the Smoky Mountains tomorrow for a weekend with my family. We have rented a cabin in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. I don't think I will have Internet access for the weekend. I will catch you up on Monday when I return home. I am grateful for the long weekend and some time away.
I hope you have a wonderful weekend. Thanks for being a part of my journey!