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OSL CANADA |
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The International Order of St Luke the Physician |
Articles |
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LISTENING: |
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A Gift of Love |
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By Keith Bird |
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In October 2012, I attended an information meeting
sponsored by Acorn Canada, featuring guest speaker, The Rev. Dr. Russ
Parker, Director of Acorn Christian Foundation in the UK. Among his
many interesting stories about the work of Acorn around the world was
how Listening had made the difference in resolving the conflict between leaders
of war-torn Ireland. He also shared how Listening is impacting
individual lives in
dramatic and positive ways.
I also experienced the joy of learning to listen to others in like manner.
Question: Take a moment to consider how it makes you feel when you begin sharing a problem but are not being listened to; when your listener interrupts your story, wants to tell you about a problem they are having. How do you feel? Answers: Ignored...insignificant...unimportant...invisible... not valued... frustrated..
Question: When others give unsolicited advice, or attempt to "fix" your problem, how does that make you feel?
Answers:
Alienated... hurt... unheard...and frustrated.
Answers:
Relieved.... understood.... important... significant...
valued... respected... validated.... loved.
When we feel fully listened to and receive 'reflective
statements’ from our listener as feedback, we get to hear and understand our self
in a new way; perhaps for the first time! And when given the space
to continue telling our story, and then to reflect on three important questions, it is amazing
what takes place within. We often discover new resources to help us make
decisions... perhaps see our situation from a different perspective... come to a
conclusion of our own making... and step forward with confidence,
and in some cases even a new sense of hope! Beginner groups for training in Listening are being formed. When sufficient members have joined, Acorn tutors will be made available. If you would like the opportunity to join a group or for more information please click to complete a brief survey.
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