Many of us are very busy–so much so, that we don’t want to take the time to let those people in our lives share their stories with us. The problem with this is that all of us need opportunities to share our stories–our joys, problems, and sorrows–with someone who cares. Being able to share our stories is what helps to keep us on an even keel emotionally. When we are denied these opportunities, we tend to feel depressed because it seems like no one cares. I remember a few years ago, one of my daughters stopped by to pick something up. She was in a chatty mood, and I could tell she wanted to talk. I was in the middle of an intense project that I really wanted to get back to. At this point I thought, “Ross, that project will always be here, but your daughter won’t.” I then got up from my computer and sat down at the kitchen table with my daughter and listened as she shared some stories that were important to her. This turned out to be one of those wonderfully precious moments that we all live for, and I would have missed out on it had I not taken the time to listen. When my daughter left, she was wearing a smile and so was I. When I returned to my project, I felt refreshed and made far more progress during the rest of the day than I would have made had I not spent that time with my daughter. So, the next time someone you know wants to share some of their stories with you, make the time to listen. If you do, you’ll be very glad you did.

One Sentence Wisdom

• “One of the most sincere forms of respect is actually listening to what another has to say.” — Bryant H. McGill
• “The opposite of talking isn’t listening. The opposite of talking is waiting.” — Fran Lebowitz

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