Listen

For a while now I have been telling myself that I will be a better listener.  I've come to realize there is quite a difference between listening and hearing.  I have heard people really well in my life, but I am not sure I have always been the best listener.  Behind someones words are their feelings, whether it's their joy or their sadness.  Those are the things you are unable to see if you are simply hearing someone tell you something.  I was reminded of this today and thinking about listening, especially in this time of my life seems really important.  Not only because I am out of school and need direction on where to go, but because it is a perfect time for me to learn from those around me. Then again, when isn't a good time to really listen to those around you?  It helps you be a better friend, co-worker, sister, daughter, girlfriend, and most importantly a better follower of Christ.  Really listening to God isn't so easy, but it is most important when every part of you is hurting or ready to burst with excitement.  It seems you must first go with your feelings and present them so you can be heard, and then you can take a deep breathe and maybe just LISTEN.  The dictionary definition is "pay attention," "attend closely" and "concentrate."  When we turn to scripture we can see that James mentions being "quick to listen and slow to speak" (James 1:19).  I also really liked what the devotional I read today said about listening: "Talking is sharing but listening is caring. Take a tip from creation. Ears aren't made to shut, but the mouth is. Put away your sermon, save your advice and just listen. Sometimes the best gift we can give is a listening ear."