I have been thinking a lot about “listening” this past week. We all know how important this skill is for friendships. It’s no fun to hang out with people who never pay attention to what you are saying. But how do we treat Spirit and the world around us as a friend?
Recently, someone came into East West asking whether we had any books on developing intuition and hearing guidance. After bringing her to that section of the store, I said, “Coincidentally, my primary work in this world is as a teacher and public speaker. ‘How to Know and Trust Your Inner Guidance’ is my favorite topic to share. I've been speaking about it for over 30 years.” She said, “How wonderful! ” and asked a question. I got a few words out, and she interrupted to tell me a story. I listened, and at the end said, “Well, let me know if I can be of further help,” and wandered off.
I was struck that this topic was important enough to her to come to the store, and then to ask me a question, but not important enough to put aside the urge to tell me a story and to listen. I fear we all do that in one way or another.
The ability to listen comes from the ability to quiet the heart. If our heart is agitated, we feel compelled to scratch that itch, and that drive drowns out everything else. Whether it is a tendency to overeat, watch too many videos, go shopping, drink — whatever it may be — it all stems from an agitated heart. It blocks our sensitivity to the joy, blessing, and true guidance that is constantly showered on us.