Active Listening

How many times during the week do you think that you spoke but were not heard? Depending on who you interact with - the number could be quite a lot!

​And out of the number that heard you - how many actually listened to you and valued you what you said?

I recently had to go to a large chain store to pick up something for an upcoming worship service. I looked high and low and could not find the items I needed. So I asked a clerk - only to have her sigh and roll her eyes at me - until she realized they were all sold out of what I needed. 

Beyond just being listened to and valued, there is another layer to listening called active listening. Where you know that person isn't just valuing you and your words but paying close attention. Not waiting for. a turn to jump in with their words, but treasuring yours. 

Who is your life actively listens to you?