Ca$hjocky and the "Old Salt"

Relationships are built on only one thing.............. Good communication. And communication is build on learning to listen.

My grandmother use to tell us this story as a child and I think it contains some advice that we all need to hear on occasion.

The man whispered, "God, speak to me." And a meadowlark sang. But, the man did not hear. So the man yelled, "God, speak to me!" And the thunder rolled across the sky. But, the man did not listen. The man looked around and said, "God let me see you." And a star shone brightly. But, the man did not notice. Then the man shouted, "God show me a miracle!" And a life was born. But, the man did not know. So the man cried out in despair, "Touch me God, and let me know you are here!" Whereupon God reached down and touched the man. But the man brushed the butterfly away and walked away unknowingly. Take time to listen. Often times, the things we seek are right underneath our noses. Don't miss out on your blessing because it isn't packaged the way that you expect.

Grandma always said that half the troubles of the world would be eliminated if only man would take the time to learn how to listen. I think she was right. The contrast between hearing and really listening can be as different as night and day.

Here are some more quotes on listening that contains some sage advice as well.

This is a time to give the gift of listening. There are an unknowable but very large number of folks who could really be helped with our listening to them. I know your hearts are all very warm and giving. Please, take time to listen to those around you. - Richard D. Halley

Every person in this life has something to teach me -- and as soon as I accept that, I open myself to truly listening. — Catherine Doucette

The most basic of all human needs is the need to understand and be understood. The best way to understand people is to listen to them. — Ralph Nichols

When making personal decisions, listen to what your head says; then listen to what your heart says. If they differ, follow your heart! Whenever you listen to your heart, you listen to that part of you that is most interested in your well-being. — Anonymous

"To talk to someone who does not listen is enough to tense the devil." -- Pearl Bailey

A little-recognized value of listening and inquiring relates to the realization that in human relationships, it is frequently not what the facts are, but what people think the facts are, which is truly important. There is benefit in learning what someone else's concept of the reality of the situation is, no matter how wrong it might be. — Bryan Bell

Take time to listen......You might be surprised at what you hear.