World Listening Day is on the 18th July. Listening is a skill that takes a lot of practice and undivided attention. I hear people a lot, but how much do I actually listen to what they say?
There are many ways to listen: by giving your full attention, using your body language and gestures to show you are engaged: nodding occasionally, smiling and other facial expressions.
The poem below is something that I will try on the 18th.
Today I Will Listen
Today I will listen
Without interrupting
Without prejudguing
Without second guessing
Without gazing
Without rehearsing
Without filtering
Without correcting
Without contradicting
Today I will just listen
Today I will listen
With attention
With humility
With respect
With patience
With understanding
With awe
With gladness
With empathy
With warmth
With gratitude
With reverence
Today I will just listen
By – Marva Shand-McIntosh
Happy Listening!
