As I watched the streaming of Hamilton, one particular line stood out to me. The line was “Talk less, smile more.” Although the perfect line for the play, what came to my mind was “Talk less, listen more.”  

Listen to gain an understanding

I listen to others so I can understand what people are going through and so that I can learn from their experiences. 

Listening is simple, but not always easy.  I enjoy learning about what is important to those around me and have a listening ear when one needs to vent. 

The challenging part comes with all the noise that surrounds us from moment to moment.  I make an effort to focus on the person and give them my full attention.  I try to minimize interruptions from the outside, particularly regarding my phone.    

As I learn how to manage a home, sports, and school I find listening to the experiences of others helpful in preparing for what might be in our family’s future.

I moved from a high-rise condo in Boston to owning a home with more yard work than I ever imagined.  There are things I was good at managing, but yard work was not on the list.  I listened and learned from my neighbors how to maintain the yard and when to mulch, trim, mow, transplant, etc. 

As far as school and sports, I try to pay attention to what is happening a year ahead of my kids’ current grade.  I listen for things that would be helpful in preparing them for their next challenge.  What has been very helpful is asking a few people I trust, “Is there anything you wished you had known regarding _____?” 

Some of the best advice I was given by a trusted mom was, “When you think you want to say something regarding your children’s sports, school, or friends, put that thought away and don’t say a word.”  In other words, talk less and listen more! 

Listen for direction

Throughout my life, I have listened for direction from Jesus.  Most often confirmation comes in the form of a “chill” running through my body.  A “pit” in my stomach or a dead-end both clearly indicate I will be taking a different route. 

For me, listening for direction starts with prayer.  Dr. Issam Nemeh shares this prayer in Miracles Every Day, “Holy Spirit, let me know what you want of me.” (Zagrans, p. 229)  This prayer is one of my favorites because it is so simple yet so powerful.

After prayer, it is time to listen for the direction.  I love this from Path To Faith, “Busy your mind with the love of Jesus and simply be still.” 

I rely on my faith to lead me down my intended path.  To gain understanding and direction I talk less and listen more.  I am grateful for my journey. 

Click here to stay connected.