Love Has Ears

I had more than my fair share of conversational chaos last weekend. It happened in three different scenarios, but each had a similar theme that you will quickly discern. 

  • Not only did my friend interrupt me, she went on to complete my sentence…with incorrect information. 
  • She made a no-doubt-about-it-I’m-ending-this-conversation statement, in essence declaring “There is nothing else to be said and if you do I will not hear it. Period.” 
  • She paid attention long enough to get the gist of my story and then commenced to enthusiastically tell her own vaguely related story over the top of mine. 
In each case, listening was not valued. Trust me, I’m not throwing stones. I’ve been on both sides: sometimes I’m a good listener. Often I’m a rotten one. I wish I could consistently live out the biblical admonition to be quick to listen and slow to speak (James 1:19). 

Author Debbie Macomber believes that becoming what she terms a ‘generous listener’ can transform our lives. In her book "One Simple Act" she lists several benefits of good listening skills:

* Gaining wisdom 
* Reducing/avoiding conflict 
* Building stronger relationships 
* Being viewed as more trustworthy 

I have a long way to go to become a generous listener. But I want to learn from my mistakes as well as the errors of others. And when I feel discouraged that no one is listening, I will find comfort in this amazing truth: 


I love the Lord, for he heard my voice;
He heard my cry for mercy. 
Because he turned his ear to me, 
I will call on him as long as I live. 
Psalm 116:1, 2

4 comments:

  1. Great reminder, Kim. I, too, have been on both sides as well. And I'm not proud of it, either.

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  2. I'm a terrible listener. I wish I was!!! I have the terrible habit of interrupting and yes, making the stories about me all too much!!! I can't stand it about myself. I'm trying desperately to fix that annoying habit. If it annoys me then I know it annoys others too.

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  3. I think we all have these moments. There are times when I have no problems listening intently to someone. Then there are the times where I just want that person to stop. I know that sounds horrible. But after all we are only human and can't always be perfect in everything we do.
    Stopping by from the “Fun Friday” blog hop. Following you on GFC. Looking forward to reading more of your posts.
    Have a great weekend :)
    Bismah @
    Simple Mama

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  4. Last Sunday I found myself interrupting people during a conversation and apologized afterward. I also value a good listener and think I am one, but I can be a poor one at times. Thanks for being a good listener to me, Kim.

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Each week I write a BOG (Brag On God) post. My prayer is that my words will invite you to brag on God, too. And together we'll make God smile.