If one gives an answer before he hears, it is his folly and shame.
-Proverbs 18:13-
In most cases what we are saying goes deeper than what we said. However, in this Me- first society we’re spread so thin that we rarely give one another our undivided attention. When someone is speaking we’re already formulating our response in our heads or we’re on to the next meeting, task, etc.
In essence we listen to what people say, but don’t truly hear what they are saying. In our haste we overlook the true message that is being communicated and leave others alone, empty, and isolated in their own prison. The more we ignore each other in this way we devalue humanity itself and that is not the heart of the Savior.
God never intended for us to carry the burdens of this harsh world alone. He created us for relationship with him and community with one another. Love and compassion are the true character of the Father. As such, we are to strive to imitate our Heavenly Father to the best of our ability.
It doesn’t cost us anything to slow down and truly listen to each other. It was a pleasing sacrifice that Christ displayed over and over in His life. Thus, leaving us the perfect example to follow. I am guilty of being too busy pushing my own agenda or being too focused on my own problems to listen, Are You?
This brash disregard for others has not only limited my ability to grow in community, but it has also created the very isolation that I fear the most. This revelation has forced me out of my comfort zone into a space of unfamiliar transparency. Nonetheless, I’m confident in the Father’s grace as I strive to change for the better.
I refuse to spend another day weighed down with the struggles He never intended for me to carry. I choose to cast my cares on Him because I know He cares for me. If it’s true community and understanding I desire, its true community and understanding I must sow. This starts with truly listening and hearing what others around me are saying.
I will begin to sincerely value the relationships and utilize the resources He has provided to help me break through my fears and silence. I will remove my mask and be transparent with others so that I can enjoy the promises of His joy and peace.
“Sometimes all a person wants is an empathetic ear; all he or she needs is to talk it out. Just offering a listening ear and an understanding heart for his or her suffering can be a big comfort.”
― Roy T. Bennett