Seeing Inside

When we converse with someone, what do we see? A face? An expression? Body language? An icon image? A user name?

As conversations happen more and more online, do we miss what we would have seen if we spoke face-to-face? Or do we miss something when we DO speak face-t0-face?

Regardless how we chat with one another, one thing we should strive to focus on is the inner side of that person. What is the person going through at the moment? How is that person feeling? We should try to understand what is prompting the words they use – what they share and what they hold back.

Eyes, it's said, are the windows to the soul. But it's not always possible to look someone in the eyes when you hold a conversation. Instead we should listen. Not with our ears, but with our hearts.

When we listen with our hearts, we start to see inside the person. We get a better understanding of that person and his/her perspective. We open our hearts and minds, and in doing so, allow something wonderful to take place.

A flower bud cannot bloom when it's held tight in a fist. We must open up and allow the other person to open up as well. We can share a gripe or a laugh. Good feelings arise in shared experiences. But most importantly, when we allow that person the room to blossom, they can express themselves freely and feel a sense of self worth.

When we do this, often the other person returns the favor and listens to us. By freeing others to express themselves, we often free ourselves. But do not expect it; let it surprise you when it happens. By listening with our hearts, we show others the way.

Everyone has a value that we can share with the world as long as the world is open to receive it. There are many, many gems hidden within people, sadly ones that never come to the surface and are lost forever.

Will you be the one to help bring that gem to the surface and let it shine?
Or will you close the door and walk away?

Listen.
See.

- ESA