Listen with deep awareness. Listen with an open heart and mind.
Apparently we only use 25% of our listening skills. That seems very low, however, this percentage gives us a clear understanding why so many of us have communication breakdowns and why we may feel invalidated, disconnected or misunderstood by others.
So what is between me and my ability to listen deeply to myself and others?
Distraction, busyness, and social media is one part of the problem, but so are emotions of anger, fear, grief and judgement, which keep barriers between us and contract us from listening deeply.
Over time, these contractions keep us separated, leaving us no space to listen or receive what we need.
If we want others to listen to us, we must tune into ourselves first. What is contracting within us? What is disconnecting us from others?
Once we let these barriers down and learn to create space within, we will create space around us, and this will allow balance and pause within our relationships.
In this awakened space, we will increase our ability to listen and learn to see the synchronicity and signs of life.
LIVING IN THIS MOMENT 
I can feel the spaciousness and it’s great to connect 💗
Beautiful! Thank you Ka 💕💚
Words of true inspiration and one sure needs to listen to what others are wanting to say and then life becomes so beautiful. Very nice post, Karen.
Thank you Kamal. Life is so beautiful when we feel understood and listened to. 💕💚
Yes so true Karen and I agree with you totally. Welcome so much.
I hear what you’re saying! 🙂
That’s the right answer Carol! 👍😀💕
A daily self-reflection does not go without merit.
-Alan
Exactly Alan. Thank you 💚
Not listening can be a way to protect oneself from conversations we are scared to hear or confront. Thank you for the reminder to stop and look inward for barriers to hearing the other.
You might enjoy my most recent poem. https://flashlightbatteries.blog/2018/07/31/unpuzzling-the-enemy/
We all have so much to learn about listening.
It is a journey of learning Ali. Thank you 🙏🏻
Interesting way to put it–what is contracting within us. And does it need to? Great questions to ask ourselves . . .
Thanks Kay. I usually find all my answers within. 🌈
Yes proper communication is very important. Lack of it brings, misunderstandings, disharmony and broken relationships. It is very important to develop proper communication skills. Thank you for the post Karen ❤
Thank you Deepa 💚💕
I love this. Recently someone gave me the Chinese characters for listening and it is comprised of ears to hear, mind to think, eyes to see, undivided attention to focus, and heart to feel. Incorporating each one of these things brings us fully present, and yet I know I do not always stand in that richness of listening fully. Great post! Thank you.
That’s beautiful Heather. It is definitely a practice. Thank you 💕💚🌈