LISTEN

photo by: Simon Crowley via flickr 

Here is a skill so often overlooked--and I call it a skill now after learning how hard it is for some people to actively listen-- to anything or anyone.  I don't mean to generalize, for there are many out there who engage in listening and it is evident in their actions and speech--however, so often people are either predominantly consumed by their own thoughts that they don't realize how much can be learned from listening and pondering before talking. This can also be used when out in nature or from within. It is important to listen to our bodies, our earth, our surroundings---they can reveal so much to those who are listening. I always remind my students that hearing and listening are quite different and honestly, I learned that through trial and error. For so long I didn't take enough time to fully take in all that I could learn from sitting and listening....even recently I read that one of the key aspects of a true leader is the ability to listen. Words can be so powerful, as small as they may be in the scheme of things, but they linger in the consciousness whether we intend for our words to do so or not. Whenever I speak before thoroughly listening to my own inner voice I get flushed with embarassment....so...I hate to sound preachy, I am just venting...and forcing myself to be increasingly aware! : )