I need to develop my skills as a listener. I took a small quiz in a book about listening skills and being a reflective listener and I failed miserably. I do listen - to my credit - more than I did, say two years ago, but that is not saying much. I guess the realization that I am coming to is that the world does not revolve around me (imagine that - to use a cliche.) I have knowledge of that intellectually - but I am having to let it trickle into the other areas of my soul.
So I am going to listen. Anyone need someone to listen? I need practice. Maybe I can shut up long enough to listen. My wife will be the perfect guinea pig. She gets tired of hearing me talk. But as soon as I start to do this spiritual practice she will immediately think that something is wrong. People always do when you talk a great deal and then decide to care about someone other than yourself and start listening.
I am shutting up now.
Just learned about your site. Finding it not only fun, but very provacative. Am writing a book on leadership for managers, and your piece on listening reflects some of the same things I have included under the same subject. Thanks for the confirmation!
Much success to you in your ministry, and I would bet that a part of the ministry will be a continuing sortee into a writing ministry. Saw the actual Wittenberg Door in Germany couple of summers ago. Very awe-inspiring and deeply moving experience.
Bill
Posted by: Bill Dunphy at September 20, 2003 02:35 PMAny change makes people uncomfortable. When an alcoholic decides to reform, his family get scared. They don't know how to be around the new reality, even if it's a healthy change.
Jesus had that effect on people too...
Carl
Posted by: Carlton Brown at October 26, 2003 07:13 AM