hear vs listen

On the bedside table is piling up an invisible stack of missed opportunities. Opportunities that arise in conversation, that could guide into an in-depth awareness of not only how each other view things yet exploring the possibility of new. While I am gently reminded that we all view things different, there is a sadness that comes from witnessing or being a part of the conversation that is only view through the lens of personal agenda. 

I have a heighten awareness these past few months of the cling to surface or one-off things that promote evidence of change or embracing modern ways. To me, trying to find understanding of how this is, results in acknowledging that the wrapping of the gift of life is so beautiful that no one dears to take the courage to peel it back to reveal what is inside. A sense that some people rip at times to peek in, only to cause a ripple of tension, of rebellion and resistance.

 

How can we continue like this? 

 

When will words stop being that pretty bow on top, and we truly listen – deeply and attentively not just in those one-hour meetings where its nearly a tick in the box of “yes, I did my listening today”!

 

There is a sense of comfort to talk the words, over and over again….. while the pile still stacks up. 

 

While we speak with glee that we are great multi taskers, I often find myself thinking – here we go again, hearing requires only ears. 

Listening demands ears, eyes, mind and maybe most importantly, heart. 

 

The difference matters a lot!!! At times I feel like a little child, saying “you’re not listening to me!” with the feeling in the heart, stomping of the tiny imaginary foot to accentuate the point. 

 

The gift of life is so precious, we can feel it, sense it in this time when so many people are losing that gift. The Lord incarnated man becoming fully present with us to experience life as we know it. He felt the love of his mother’s touch, He learned a craft at the side of his father, He celebrated marriage, He cried from personal loss. He looked His friends and followers square on and gave them His complete attention, regardless of the demands on Him and distractions associated with circumstances. 

 

Jesus was fully present with His family and followers. Jesus is fully present with His family and followers. 

 

There is something to be said about the priceless gift that gives so much that has ripples beyond ripples. That is Undivided attention.