Deeply listening to someone is both an honor and a privilege. It is deep connection with another being that comes from my heart and opens to another, just as they are. It takes awareness, focus and patience. Listening deeply opens me to curiosity about another and a willingness to understand without judgement. It connects me to another and reminds me of Thich Nhat Hanh's "interbeing' teachings.
I have felt deeply listened to several times in my life when someone was quiet, gave their full attention to me with their eyes and body language, did not interrupt me while I was speaking, was facially expressive, was not distracted and offered suggestions if they were asked for. I felt like I was the center of the universe for a period of time, safety, and trust.
What helps me to deeply listen is making an intention that I want to be present for another. Taking my time, breathing mindfully and creating a container of sufficient space and time allows me to really be there with another.
On Apr 7, 2022 Leslie Tizer wrote :