During those times when we're most anxious to get our ideas heard, we
lose out on valuable information that can either make us smarter, or
it will broaden our horizons with new thoughts that can be just what
we need to solve a problem, find a new path in life or come to a new
conclusion. And there's always the opportunity of learning more about
a person so that we can understand their motives and perhaps not trust
them as we originally believed we should. Then there's the opposite to
consider.  We might find we have much in common with a person, but we
won't know if we don't give them our full attention.

I've caught myself doing this at times with my adult children.  I hate
to admit it, but I have to shut-off my opposing thoughts overriding
their voices. Once I calm my mind and just listen to what they have to
say with unbiased acceptance, I soon get their trust.  That trust
allows them more freedom to continue speaking with greater depth and
sincerely.  And you know what?  I learn more about them as people
beyond my motherly need to show them a better way or to guide them in
another direction.

There is a spiritual law at work here and once we realize how easily
our minds can slip into their own silent, one-sided dialogue, we're
open to changing this particularly ignorant habit that might keep us
locked within a dark, one dimensional world.

There are great rewards given in exchange for listening.  We learn
patience, self-control, how to care about others, and most important
how to have an open mind for tolerance.  Even if we can't agree with
what we hear, we'll have the privilege of seeing life from another
point of view.  We don't have to accept what we hear, but every
different point of view expands our minds. And who knows? Just one
different or profound idea can lead us in a specific direction we were
meant to go, but would have never found otherwise.

So learn to regard different ideas as seeds being planted in your
mind.  If they're fertile, your heart will embrace them and your mind
will deepen them into greater thoughts that will create and bring
forth the purpose in life you were meant to fulfill.

And you know what?  By listening you can do the same for others.  When
you truly care about what others have to say, they'll stop and listen
to you when it's your turn, unless you're speaking with someone who
just isn't listening.

Margaret Lukasik
Christian Teacher and Life Coach

Please visit me at:
http://www.the-way-to-wealthy-living.com