Friends and Beyond

A Visit From A Good Friend

This weekend I spent some wonderful time with a new and good friend.  She came in from California on Friday evening to attend a seminar.  Although we spent a day and a half we spent some quality time having some fun as well.  After a full day in the seminar we had dinner and then went out on the town to see an entertainer I know.  It had been some time since I shared time with someone who had a great attitude and zeal for life.  The following day we attended the morning session then went for a brunch before just hanging out at my home.  To finished the evening and weekend we joined another friend of ours for a barbeque then called it a night.  During that time I found that we communicated in many different and positive ways.  Her generosity humbled me and I found a new appreciation in the time she spent with me.  This person is Connie Regan Green and she inspires me to go beyond my limits to succeed.  Thanks Connie for a wonderful experience.

Listening Is A Gift

Have you ever wondered how good of a listener you really are?  Sometimes when we think we are listening to someone else express their thoughts, we are not really listening at all.  Whether we know it or not we are so busy thinking of what to say in response to what is being said we so not actually hear the conversation.  Many times were are trying to argue our own points that we do not really hear the point of the other person.  Real listening takes practice.  It is difficult to just hear and not immediately find a response.  But when you do this, you will understand more of what is being said and not assume the outcome of the remarks as readily.  I find myself at times trying to make my points be heard that I am not always sure or do not hear all together the statements or explanations of the person that I am talking to.  Have you noticed that in yourself.  We usually are not aware of this until it is brought to our attention.  I am going to practice not saying anything immediately just for a response.  I am going to process the other side of the conversation before I say anything at all.  Sometimes you may find that at many points nothing really needs to be said.  The person that you are speaking with may not need your advice or comments, they may just need you to listen. Being quiet is a form of communication.