WITH THE BEGINNING of a new year, thoughts turn to what may unfold in 2024. We just don’t know. So much is beyond our control, even if we think it isn’t.
Life brings joy. Life brings challenges. Life brings the unexpected. That’s a given. Life can be downright difficult at times. And that’s where we each have the power to make a difference in the lives of family, friends and even strangers. That starts with listening, not to our own voices, but rather to the voices of others.
How many times has someone asked how you’re doing and you answer honestly (or maybe not so honestly) only to then hear the questioner share his/her story? Suddenly the focus is on the other person and not your situation. Happens all the time. How does that make you feel? In those conversations, I’ve felt dismissed, unheard, like I don’t matter. And I am not a selfish, self-centered person.
The point here is, if you ask someone how they are, opt to listen. Keep the focus on them, not you. People appreciate someone who listens, who shows genuine care and compassion.
We Minnesotans have a tendency to use the word “fine” way too much when responding to “How are you?” I, for one, really want to know when I ask that question. I try not to use the phrase as a meaningless greeting. Oftentimes I’ll customize the question if I know, for example, that someone is facing challenges. That shows I truly care.
I suppose part of my perspective comes from my journalism background. To be a good news reporter requires well thought out questions and strong listening skills. As a reporter, you are an observer, a gatherer of information, not an active participant in the story. Those skills can translate to everyday life, too.
A few months ago I saw a sign in a front yard in small town Nerstrand listing quotes by the late Fred Rogers. Fifth on that list was this: LISTENING IS WHERE LOVE BEGINS. I love love love that quote stressing the importance of listening.
I loved listening to Rogers’ quiet, gentle, soothing voice on his TV show, “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.” He exuded calm, peace, serenity. His messages of kindness, love, listening, embracing the beauty in each day and more are definitively positive. We should each strive to live them. Smile. Hold a door. Thank someone. Encourage. And listen, really listen.
© Copyright 2024 Audrey Kletscher Helbling
Minnesota Prairie Roots 
He really understood what is important in life and distilled it down to words that all ages could understand and follow
I absolutely agree.
Thank you for the reminder for this year. Listen more.
Happy 2024. may it bring more joy in your writings. lov Kathy
You are welcome. Happy 2024 to you also, Kathy!
My best interaction was this week, I ran into a teacher that’s my son’s age. She looked at me in amazement and said “Gavin, I heard you were dead.”
Oh, my goodness! My question is this: What was your response?
I can vouch that you are very much alive.
Good reminder for the new year. Happy New Year Audrey.
Happy New Year to you and your family also, Valerie. I think we all (including me) need to be reminded sometimes of Mr. Rogers’ messages, especially the one to listen. I consider you to be an excellent listener.
Thanks Audrey.
Great advice by Mr. Rogers.
Our mayor here should listen to questions asked by the media instead of admonishing them for doing so!
All the best to you and Randy for 2024!
Oh, Keith, I hear you. I can’t speak specifically to your NYC mayor. But the admonishment of media for simply doing their job started at the top several years ago. It’s so disheartening that many in places of power seek to suppress the media. We need a media free to do their job if we are to maintain our democracy. I know you understand and appreciate that.
The best to you and your family in 2024 also, Keith!
I heard. I hope you are doing well.
“I heard.” What an appropriate and kind response, Ken. Thank you. I am doing much better healthwise. Next up is bilateral strabismus surgery in a few weeks to align my eyes. Hopefully that will fix my double vision and provide some relief for my brain, which is working hard to see just one. Happy New Year to you!
It’s always good to listen. We all could do better in that area.
I consider you an excellent listener, my friend.
Great Post! I have been practicing sincerity more in my life. I like the energy and vibe it gives me to just be more myself when interacting, connecting, communicating, etc. I am very strong in my beliefs of helping each other vs. breaking others down. Love is actively listening to another person, love is being true to who you are, coming from a place of kindness and love brings light, positivity, maybe a little ease too, etc. Thanks so much for sharing 🙂 Love this and need the reminder at times too. Happy Day – Enjoy!
Renee, you are such a positive person who listens, cares, focuses on and helps others. You inspire me.
You inspire me too 🙂 See it is that energy that we have with each other that is inspiring and spreads love and light and kindness.
Thank you, Renee. Connections and sharing and spreading kindness and positivity…so needed.