The Lost Art of Listening

I used to think I was a good listener but was shocked to find I suck at listening.

I get so focused on what I’m going to say next, or thinking about writing, or whatever the hell that I don’t listen like I could or should.

This was brought home to me when I recently cancelled DISH and accidentally mailed an expensive stereo receiver with all the stuff.

I thought it was part of their equipment.

This was bad on two levels.

One: I can’t afford to replace it.

Two: I didn’t listen to my wife Kathy and let her take a look at it before I sent it.

They tell you when they cancel you have only so many days to get back their equipment or face fines maybe jail (kidding).

Since Kathy has been fighting cancer I had this bright idea to do all of this for as a surprise.

It was a surprise all right.

So now I know I need to listen.

Not just because it’s polite, not just because it’s the right thing to do but because not listening is expensive.

Both in time, money, and relationships.

So if you have my particular problem it might be a good idea to prick up your ears and listen.

I sure intend too.