Being a skilled listener

Bible | christianity | communication | family | holy | life | listening | parenting | relationships | wisdom

Some days, I just have one of those days where I really need to talk and I really need someone to listen. But it doesn't happen. When I need to vent, it seems like everyone else does too.

James 1:19 (NRSV) You must understand this, my beloved: let everyone be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger.

I know this biblical verse isn't directly relating to what I said, but it's something that I take to heart. You really can learn if you just listen to what others are saying. And by listening, you become a good listener.

There really is something to just being quiet and keeping your mouth shut. There are all kinds of sources of wisdom out there. It could be your mom, your grandfather, or a stranger on the street. I think reflecting on things you may hear is wise.

Sometimes, we learn through other people's experiences, if we would only listen to what they have to say. They may go through something that a few years down the road you will face. And if you have taken the time to hear what they had to say, you might be able to cope with it in a better way.

As human beings, we don't always express ourselves in a great way. That's why we all need to remember to be slow to anger. Because someone may say something to you that wasn't meant to be offensive, it just simply came out the wrong way.

I've listened to alot of other people's problems, and I have learned from them. It's a great way to learn about life.

So the next time someone wants to talk, listen. It's a wonderful way to show you really care.