We all have a special gift.
This gift is powerful and inherent in each of us. It is available to share at a moment’s notice.
What is this gift?
The gift of listening, giving one’s focused attention to another.
I recently came to understand how life-strengthening this gift can be from a simple interaction my husband had at the grocery store.
We needed a few groceries and decided to divide and conquer.
When we were on our way home, he told me of the following experience.
As he was deciding whether to put a warm, roasted chicken in his cart, a man came up to him and asked if this type of chicken was any good.
What followed was a heart-wrenching conversation.
The man told my husband that he’d been diagnosed with cancer and that today was the first day he’s talked with anyone in a month!
I imagine this man was at the grocery store to not only obtain food, but with the hope of receiving human connection, to be seen and heard. And truthfully, isn’t that what we all desire?
I didn’t see this man, but my heart went out to him, imagining what he must be going through.
My husband is a reserved, quiet man who is more comfortable alone on his tractor farming than socializing with people.
But for a few minutes that day, he gave the gift of focused attention and a listening ear to an individual in need.
It didn’t take much time. Nothing more was being asked of him other than to listen with respect and kindness.
Knowing my husband, I can visualize him cocking his head slightly to listen. I can see the kindness in his eyes, and hear the gentleness in his response.
He truly gave the gift of listening which not only strengthened this man, but uplifted him as well.
I have wondered how many times have I not fully listened to another? Perhaps I worry that what I’m able to offer will not be enough, or just the right thing, or that I’ll be asked to give more than I’m able.
How often do I let fear stop me?
Often listening is all that is being asked, but my worry gets in the way of that gift.
My husband’s experience was a reminder to me to be ready to share this simple, easy to share gift of listening.
Much love,
