The Art of Conversation

I had a very odd conversation today. I was speaking to a Psychiatrist (there is an unjustified taboo against that phrase but just to clarify, it was to ask for help with a volunteering project), and I had this strange sense that our conversation was odd. I felt awkward and couldn't figure out why as I'm usually confident in most conversations. Maybe he didn't want to talk to me? Maybe he was sending out vibes regarding not being interested in the volunteer opportunity? Maybe... Then it hit me.

It felt awkward and odd because this other member of the conversation was intently listening to everything I was saying. He was completely silent while I was speaking, I didn't feel any sense of being... rushed...

After the conversation, my first thoughts went to why it was so awkward, what had he done, or what was he trying to tell me through silent language? That made me think, was it really a message or was I the one who handled the conversation the "wrong" way?

Looking back at other conversations I've participated in, it seems as though oftentimes everyone is anxiously trying to state their opinion as quickly as possible... often we miss opportunities to communicate and to listen. Thinking back on that makes me a bit sad. Just reflecting on this "awkward" conversation led me to learn so much. How much would I have learned in my life if I was a much better listener?

We only live for a short period of time, and maybe that's what gives us such a sense of urgency in our lives. We need to do everything we can... right? Or rather, is it more important to do everything we should do and must do, and do it with a sense of intention? I don't know exactly which way is the right way, but I feel as though doing a few things with intention and with love would lead to more satisfaction in our lives and our societies. Maybe if we all just took a moment to breathe and listen we would hear more. Maybe that's one of the many paths we can take to God. To listen to each other.

What do you say? Please allow me to listen.