Are You Listening?

778 followers

5 years ago

Being a mother of eleven children requires a lot of energy. Frequently, I get lost in the chores and the day to day grind of life in general. I find myself getting lost in my own little world and I forget to stop and listen to what is going on around me. I miss things; obvious things and things that require a little more thought.

I am thinking about the chores that have not been finished while my husband is explaining details about his work. I seldom call my older children, who no longer live at home, and just listen to how their life is going. I don't really listen as my youngest is telling me about his day at school. I put off calling a friend whom I know is experiencing difficulties and just offer them a sympathetic ear. On a good day, I stop and ask myself, are you listening? On other days, it doesn't dawn on me until I've settled in for the night, and my recollection of the day reminds me that I really didn't take the time to listen.

My personal experience with having conversations with people whom I knew were not really listening to me; their eyes moving about the room and inattentive, led me to feeling insignificant. Also, there are some people that will finish your sentences for you and then take over the conversation. Ouch! that doesn't make anyone feel important.

Overwhelmed and tired is a description of life that I feel everyone can relate to. However, we need to remember that those we love will not always be with us. Unchecked inattention to those who are an important part of our lives can lead to deterioration of the relationships that we hold so dear. Likewise, listening is much-needed in all aspects of life. Improved listening skils could make the world a better place.

I'm going to make it a personal goal to become a better listener. How about you?

Have a great day everyone,
River :-)