Listening

After a head cold over the weekend and then speaking twice on Sunday, my voice is gone. I feel fine, but when I open my mouth nothing much happens. I can croak out a phrase or two before it just becomes too painful for those listening. My family and the office staff are thrilled. It's my turn to listen.

Listening is hard work. For a guy that gets paid to talk it is something I don't practice nearly enough. It's more than just hearing what is being said. Listening is engaging with others. Entering someone's story. People have fascinating tales to tell. Really good listeners know how to ask leading questions or steer conversations onto topics that matter. And they're content to let it end with a hardy laugh or a warm smile. Why would I want to hear one of my stories again when I could get a glimpse of life from a completely different perspective or experience new adventures through others?

People enjoy being around a good story-teller for a season. Eventually, the stories run out or lose their appeal. But a listener is someone we're drawn to over and over again. They respect, comfort and affirm us. It shouldn't surprise anyone that Jesus had more impact through conversations. Few would even think to label him a preacher. He was a master teacher because he listened first.

So, I've got a chance to practice something I'm not very good at and be a little more like Jesus. I'm grateful... really. Seems a little strange to be blogging about it. I suppose a talker has to have some outlet. If you're listening, thank you.