Listen

Listen. Listen to others, listen to your soul.  This thought has been on my mind for weeks.  When someone opens up with a thought or issue it is so important to listen.  Listen to each word, pay attention to their emotions and listen with your heart.  It has struck me how hard that is for most people to accomplish.  It seems our first reaction is to tell a story about ourselves.  It is almost like a contest of experiences.  Why is that?  I think of the times when I have wanted someone to listen to me.  The times I have tried to express a feeling or fear it seems the conversation shifts to them.  I hear their experience, their problem, their life.  Why do people feel that sharing their experience is what you need in your moment of sadness, frustration or pain.  My challenge is to listen.  Listen without adding input.  Listen without a comparing story or advice.  All I am going to do is listen.  Being still and quiet can also serve our souls.  Just think about being quiet and still and letting your soul guide you.  Healing comes from silence.