Listening

People hear what they want to hear, what they expect to hear, and sometimes, almost nothing at all.

Minds wander, sometimes to troubles and concerns. Other times to anticipated fun in the future.

It is sad how much of the present is lost because no one is actually there, or at least one is not there.

People accuse each other of lying, or omitting things when it was their own listening that was the lie.

They don't know when their checks are coming, or their bills are due.

They don't know what people really want from them, or need from them.

They don't understand how some people live seemingly easier lives than they do.

I listen. It's one of the reasons I prefer to go out with one other person rather than two, or three, or more. I can only really listen to one person at a time and I really care what is said.

Listening may be the magic word. It brings knowledge, not just in the classroom, but everywhere.