On how many interesting relationships have I missed out by labeling others as — well — others? How much common ground have I missed because of my unskillful ability to hear what others were really saying?
When I think of people with prejudices, how much of the judging is mine?
How many have I pushed away because of what were really superficial differences in points of view?
How interested am I — really — in learning more about the world and the people in it? Enough to keep my mouth shut and listen, and then find something I can agree with, rather than automatically disagreeing with those…others?
Sometimes I seem to be improving in those areas, slowly but surely, although I have a long way to go. How are you doing?
What...Me Sober? 
Thanks, Bill!
LikeLike
Hi Jessie,
Congratulations on your 40 days and 1001 nights! It really is a new world, isn’t it?
Keep on keepin’ on!
Bill
LikeLike
Excellent post. I too often find that I wait for people to stop talking so that I can insert my two cents, rather than truly hearing and understanding the other’s point of view. I do notice that I am a somewhat better listener sober, but I do have a long way to go. However, I feel like even in 40 short days, I’m evolving into a true human being, and I like me more every day. Thank you for the reminder to truly listen and to strive to understand others. It really does open up a whole new world, which is a beautiful thing!
LikeLike