Yesterday, when I went out to take my morning walk, I
crossed the street to toss my neighbors’ newspaper onto their porch. Rather
than cross back over to my side of the street, I stayed on their side, walking
up a street I usually walk down. It surprised me how that tiny change altered
my perspective.
I spotted shrubs and flower beds, birdfeeders and planters,
backyard decks that are out of sight coming from the opposite direction. There
were nuances and shades and shadows I’d never noticed before.
If a small change can give me a new point of view in my morning
walk, can small steps of change work for my attitude too?
With all the discord in the world around us, what is
possible if instead of holding fast to our own position, we each take one small
step towards the opinions we disagree with or look down on and try to see them
from another direction?
Even if we still disagree, if each of us is willing to take
that first small step, could we better hear and understand each other?
Hi Carol, I try this approach on my dog walk a few times a week, and it has yielded nice returns in wildlife siting, garden ideas and a greater appreciation of my neighbors.
ReplyDeleteIt is always good advice to listen to what others have to say, vs. waiting for your turn to prove them wrong with your talking points.
Active listening ... now that's definitely a new direction for most people.
Chris
Chris, even with years of training, active listening challenges me when emotions and opinions are strong. thanks for the reminder to breathe and listen
ReplyDelete