Do You Hear…or Listen?

Sometimes, in all the noise of my life and the world around me, I hear varied sounds–a capella singing, impromptu piano pieces, languish and laughter, television banter, lightsabers bouncing, and conversations here and there.  Since we replaced the carpet in our family room with Pergo recently, I have noticed the level of noise that I hear has increased without the carpet to absorb some of the sound.  With all these melodies competing for my attention, I find myself tuning out the sound and failing to truly listen.

Just a few days ago, I attended my regular Sunday church meetings.  Following a class I taught, a friend of mine came up to discuss her week.  Because I was thinking of catching our children before they ran rampant through the hallway, I was not really tuned in to what she was saying to me.  I was about halfway there with her, and halfway in my mind wondering about my own work.  When I saw her again later, I apologized for not listening to her.  I told her that I felt distracted, and that I felt badly for not showing her the compassion I ought to during her expression of emotion and thoughts.  I did not help to carry her burden as she did mine.  I felt like less of a friend.

Thankfully, I was able to talk to her during the coming week after someone had spoken ill of her.  She was distressed and tearful, and I stopped what I was doing to listen.  I hope I was able to speak words of love and comfort to her as she did for me only days prior.  How grateful I am for another chance to help her.  I will try to work on my listening skills and be more aware and in tune with the needs of those around me.  :)   How about you?