The Power of a Good Listener

From the innocence of children asking for a conversation to encountering Christ on the road to Emmaus, the act of listening opens the heart to profound truths. In this final episode of the season, the Sisters of Life share practical tips on how to listen to others in a way that makes them feel seen, understood, and loved. 

Snippet from the Show

Listening is about acknowledging the other person's presence and dignity, fostering a relationship that echoes the divine communion of the Father and the Son.

Quotes

 "In the 1990s, a psychiatrist by the name of Judith Herman described three stages in recovery from the effects of trauma: Number one, establishing safety. Number two, telling your story, and number three, reconnecting with others." - Gregory Crete

Scritpure references

The Road to Emmaus (Luke 24:13-35)

Practical Skills in Listening

1. Bodily Posture: Engage with the person through eye contact and attentive gestures. Presence speaks volumes even before words do.
2. Reflective Listening: Demonstrate understanding by summarizing what the other person is saying, not to agree or disagree but to ensure they feel heard and valued.
3. Focus on the Person: Avoid the temptation to prepare your response while the other speaks. Instead, seek to understand their perspective fully.

Challenges of the Week

1. Familiarize yourself with the Sisters of Life's Into Life Series
2. Invite someone for coffee to practice listening to their story.
3. Trust that God holds both the painful and beautiful parts of your story. Be at peace because God is working in your story.