World Listening Day!

A former next-door neighbor and I had English class together at Tarrant County College.  Whenever we were in class, he would immediately ask, "What did she say?" whenever the professor began speaking.  This was so irritating because then I couldn't hear or understand what was getting spoken.  Not too long afterward, I witnessed a very similar scene in one of the Kroger's stores I service.  (This time the incident was between two co-workers, but none-the-less laughable.)  Listening is one among many lost arts in today's society. I believe a lot of it comes from simply not paying attention to our surroundings.  There are different types of listening, such as sympathetic and empathetic listening; however, those advanced skills are for those who aren't lost in the world of the self-absorbed.  Early on in life, I quickly learned I can gain all the answers to the questions I have if I will only sit down and shut up long enough to do so.  Yes, this strategy may take a little longer, but it sure beats the rapid-fire exchange of questions and one-word answers.  In honor of today's holiday, try listening to someone or something without verbally interrupting or mentally wandering off.  Practice it every day if you like what you experience.  Have fun!