The Tao of Deep Listening

“Deep listening is miraculous for both the listener and speaker. When someone receives us with open-hearted, non-judgmental, intensely interested listening, our spirits expand” – Sue Patton Soele

My training involved the practice of attention. It’s probably the only practice I have truly embraced because if I don’t start by paying attention to what’s in front of me then what do I think I’m doing? This is it! Right now is the entire universe in front of you in these moments.

So, I’m thinking that applies to another person, and to listen deeply means to focus attention on what they say and how I listen. You know, am I actually listening or busy figuring out what to say next.

The best time for this practice is during holidays. Because holidays, even in todays environment, lend themselves to more communication. What better gift to give anyone? Your attention, them becoming the object of focus, and you the presenter of focus. How beautiful is that or how beautiful could that be?

If you don’t already practice this next time you find yourself in conversation, in person, internet, phone, or text, give yourself entirely to that focus on another. See and accept them in the moments you exist together. Ignore your constant thought stream and become that receiver, accepting, deep, wide, intense, and open. Listen to another like you would listen to a song you love deeply. See how that feels and please let me know.

Take good care of you, you are the only you there is!

Bryan Wagner