I came across this quote – by Simon Sinek – the other day –

“The art of listening – is creating an environment – in which the other person feels heard – feels seen – and feels understood”.

And it got me thinking. Do I consciously seek – to create that sort of environment.

In todays culture – with the intrusion of so much technology – it has become more of a challenge – to be able to give myself fully – to what someone else may be saying.

And – more than that – to enable them to truly feel heard – seen – and understood.

To quote further – “One of the most sincere forms of respect – is actually listening – to what another has to say”.

Listening really is an art – that’s far more than just ‘hearing’ – what another is saying. I love the way it’s put here –

“There is a great difference between hearing – and listening. When you hear – words just pass through your ears. When you listen – the words touch your being”.

We all need people in our lives – who will listen to – and honour – our stories. Listening to the stories of others is a fundamental human need – that fosters connection – empathy – and understanding.

I have been so grateful for those who have taken the time – to listen to me – especially over the past few years – when I have experienced so many changes in my life.

For some – it’s probably not been easy – to understand where my journey has taken me – – and to them in particular – I am grateful – for their willingness to listen.

And I say – “Thank you – to the special people in my life – who have listened without judgment – helped without conditions – understood with empathy – and love me no matter what”.

Yet – much as I need those people in my life – I am aware that – I also need to be there for others. To be there – and to take the time – to truly listen.

So I align myself with this quote – “When we care enough to ask – and really take the time to listen to someone else’s story – we learn so much about who they are – listen with your heart”.

And I promise myself – that I will always seek to – not just ‘hear’ – but to ‘listen’ to the hearts of others.

Blessings – Lois