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Category: Communication / Topics: Communication Relationships Wellness

Listening

by Dan Seagren

Posted: March 6, 2016

Some practical tips on the art of listening…



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Those of us who suffer hearing loss at least have some excuse for not listening, or listening attentively. We can let our minds wander thanks to our excuses of hearing loss. But then, we may miss something important, worth hearing and even repeating perhaps besides showing respect to the one who is talking, teaching, preaching or simply making sounds.

So much for excuses. Now let's address the art of listening. Yes, it is or can be an art. First, we must open our minds (and hearts sometimes) to be ready to listen. Listening is more than hearing sounds, it is interpreting those sounds and then assimilating them somehow. Those words may come in handy someday.

Recently we made a purchase online which arrived in three stages. We had to put some parts together but we were afraid because the package arrived as though it had been struck by an avalange. But everything inside survived. Then we were mystified because the directions, quite clear in part, did not tell us everything. By doing what we could, we solved the strange mysteries that did stymi us for awhile.

So what does this mean. Simply that the written word accompanied by pictures needed more persuasiveness which we had to accomplish ourselves. In other words, we had to read between the lines to get the whole meaning. Listening demands that as well. Recently, we listened to a former teacher who remembered that era when classes about midway exhibited a restlessness resulting in a lack of attentiveness. This persuaded the teacher to find a solution which effectively ended in a book which spread worldwide.

There is a correlation between hearing and listening in more subtle ways. Fathers (like mine) would raise their voices when necessary. Mothers, siblings, coaches, teachers, preachers and bosses all have learned this trick which doesn't always work well. And there are experts who teach the art of listening perhaps more than experts who teach the art of effective hearing.

And then there is the all too often penalties for not listening or paying attention (although some converations, speaches, tales or lectures do go on endlessly). And yes, writers also can do the same. Listening attentively can become a fading or lost art but it can also become a bonanza, both for the speaker and the listener. While watching some golf one evening, my wife wantd to turn the dishwasher off so I could watch better without the noise. Listening indeed is an art and a pleasure, isn't it?



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Dan Seagren is an active retiree whose writings reflect his life as a Pastor, author of several books, and service as a Chaplain in a Covenant Retirement Community.

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Posted: March 6, 2016   Accessed 203 times

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