slow to talk, quick to listen

As I remember how the Lord is teaching me to be wise with the words that I say, I probably have to learn to listen more than comment. And listening can be so tough. When there's so many other things to worry about, time is short, environment is distracting etc., making sense of what I'm listening to can be soooo challenging. Nonetheless, this is one necessary skill to hone if I want to continue in the people ministry.

The "Five Laws of Listening:"

• Somebody has to go first - when sharing sensitive/privileged information help your friend feel safe by offering to share first (be vulnerable).

• Don't compete for airtime - listen more than you talk

• Some of the best questions don't have question marks - gather more information by making requests in the form of a statement (ex. Tell me about your family. I'd like to know more about that. Explain how that happened.)

• Say it again - tell your friend what you think you heard her saying so she can correct your perceptions

• Ask tough questions gently - be prepared to answer whatever questions you ask