“All growth is a leap in the dark; a spontaneous, unpremeditated act without the benefit of experience.” Henry MillerRecently I had coffee with a friend. There was so much going on in her life, I settled into active listening mode. I asked questions, she told stories. It was glorious. Much of my life I have been told, “You talk too much,” or “You need to listen more.” Talking too much is my greatest character gap between who I am and who I desire to be…but, not for lack of trying. When young, my dad used to tell me, “When you’re talking you can’t learn anything new; you can only repeat what you already know.” I really tried to listen, but I discovered I’m one of those people that learn by synthesis. So I need to draw a correlation in my own life or put the concept into my own words in order to fully integrate the point. I learned it was easier to listen silently with a pen and paper in hand. But taking notes in casual conversation is awkward. As we drank coffee, my friend shared her experiences, and my mind conjured up a been-there-done-that experience of my own, but without feeling the need to share it aloud. It reminded me of a line in the Anne of Green Gables movie where Anne said, “If you only knew how many times I want to say something and don’t.” Listening to my friend I learned so much about her, her family, and even about a book she had read that I now want to read. More importantly, I felt as if I’m growing as a person not having to say every thought that comes to mind. Is there an area of growth that you want to work on? Do you have a habit that you would like to change for the better? What will you do differently today that will be the leap of faith without the benefit of experience that will help you grow? Lord, I hope you continue to surprise me with precious gems of friendship when I choose to listen instead of talk. Amen “Know this, my beloved brothers; let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger.” James 1:19 What are your thoughts? Libby Note: Henry Miller (1891-1980), an American writer and painter, known for breaking with existing literary forms that developed a new sort of semi-autobiographical novel. Examples of this style are Tropic of Cancer (1934), Tropic of Capricorn (1939). He also wrote travel memoirs.
2 Comments
Linda Owens
3/3/2017 09:59:33 am
Thank you for this brief but powerful blog. These things have been on my mind the past 2 weeks. Isn't that just like our Lord, to lay something out there to affirm where He is guiding us?
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Libby Taylor-Worden
3/4/2017 04:28:02 pm
Linda, I'm so glad this has helped you where God is already moving in your life. God's timing is perfect! : )
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WelcomeI love the wisdom of the ages gleaned from relevant quotes. In them there is a connection to the human experience that crosses all borders. Join me as I relate my personal experiences, and link the wisdom of the quote to the Source of all wisdom: God's Word, the Bible. Enjoy, Libby Categories
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