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We demonstrate the virtue of respect for others by
being courteous and civil, and treating everyone in a
manner that acknowledges and honors basic human
dignity.
An important but often neglected aspect of respect is
listening to what others say. Respectful listening is
more than hearing. It requires us to consider what's
being said. That's hard when we've heard it before,
aren't interested, or don't think much of the person
talking. It's even worse when we act like we're
listening, but are just waiting for our turn to speak.
The fact is, most of us don't listen well, certainly
not all the time, and especially with those closest to
us. Kids are especially adept at tuning out their
parents; but parents are equally skilled at ignoring or
dismissing as foolish or irrelevant what kids have to
say.
The disrespect of not listening is most apparent when
others ignore or patronize us: (rolling their eyes in a
show of impatience or contempt or faking interest with
a vacant stare or wandering eyes).
We all want to know that what we say and think matters.
But if we want others to care about what we say, we
need to care about what they say. Like all the
important virtues, we teach respect best by
demonstrating it. So listen up! It'll make people feel
better, and you may learn something.
This is Michael Josephson reminding you that character
counts.
For Commentaries go to:
http://whatwillmatter.com/category/commentary/
Daily Encounter:
submitted by:
Brenda Clark Pike
2015