A few reminders

God, Karma, the Holy Spirit, the alignment of stars? Who knows. But over the last few weeks (while I’ve been chasing my tale in a mad frenzy to stay “on top of things”), I’ve tripped over a few reminders about two things that are important: mindfulness and listening.

Thanks to OnBeing interviews with social psychologist Ellen Langer and StoryCorps creator David Isay for shaking me awake (or settling me down?).

Langer describes mindfulness as “the very simple process of actively noticing new things.” It’s paying attention and looking at a person or event or situation with eyes open to something completely new. It’s leaving behind expectations (or “unplanned resentments”).  Isay talks about the sacred spaces of listening and how most people (most of us) simply want that—to be listened to. Listening in this way is mindfulness. It’s being open and awake to the other person and to her or his story. It’s honoring the holiness of that person, a child of God.

From Langer and Isay I headed over to Parker Palmer and the Center for Courage and Renewal and references to sacred listening. These forays reminded me of experiences with spiritual directors and counselors who provided sacred space for listening and opened doors to whispers of truth.

Another stopover: Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s “Advice to Christians.”   Something we Christians should take to heart in our dealings with each other, as much as in our relationships with those who do not profess a faith in Christ! Echoes the quotation attributed to St. Francis of Assisi, “Preach the gospel always, and if necessary, use words.”

We waste so much time trying to convince others of our points of view. We argue and posture and defend. How many times would we be better served, would we better serve the other person, if we just listened?

The best bit comes from David Isay's story about Dan Rather's interview with Mother Theresa.

He asked her what she said during her prayers. And she said, “I listen.” Rather then said, “Well, then what does God say to you?” And she said, “He listens.”