Thursday, February 11, 2021

John Bolduc

Listen

I have been asked to share a reflection on the word listen. I am forced to ask myself, “ How well do I listen?” I typically enjoy the sounds of nature - driving rain, thunder, crackling snow crust underfoot. Listening and being absorbed in nature’s cacophony is spellbinding. Tonight, however, as I listen to the rain on our roof, I have conflicting emotions. My first thought is that the rain is making the snow heavy and that it will be difficult to shovel. At the same time, I’m reminded how peaceful it is to just listen to the sound and enjoy it. When I put my own anxieties aside, and really listen - just listen - I can find such joy and peace.

The same is true of how I can interact with others. This has been a year full of information and people striving to be heard – politics, COVID, the economy. Our capacity for listening has been sorely tried. It’s tempting to shut off the information overload, especially if I don’t agree with the message or if I’m fatigued by it.

It’s also far too easy for me to listen to those that only share my views - tuning in to the people, the friends, and the news that I want to hear. There are always voices that speak of things that go against my beliefs. And while I don’t have to share opposing views, I can listen in order to understand what lies beneath their words. Different beliefs arise from different experiences. There is much to hear if I can set aside my judgement, biases, preconceptions and just listen.

My own personal reflection will be to pray to be a better listener to others with tolerance and understanding.