Have you ever been talking to someone and in the middle of the conversation, you find that your mind has been wandering and you have forgotten what you are even talking about? I am all too often guilty of this! As a mother of five girls, I am often multitasking. My mind wanders, thinking about what I need to be doing next.
Elder Robert D. Hales, a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, shared an experience he had with his grandson. His grandson hopped up next to him while he was reading the newspaper. His grandson started talking. He enjoyed hearing his voice as he read the paper. After a few moments, his grandson pulled down the paper and asked, “Grandpa! Are you in there?”
I would ask the same question of all of us. Are we “in there” when our spouse is talking to us, or are we so focused on what we are doing or thinking about to truly listen? Giving council to parents of youth Elder Hales taught: “we have to pay attention to them just as we would pay attention to a trusted colleague or close friend. Most important is asking them questions, letting them talk, and then being willing to listen- yes, listen and listen some more…”
I wonder what effect it would have on our marriages if we took the time to be present and truly listen to our spouse? We have so many distractions all around us. Can we take a few minutes each day to set aside those distractions and take time to listen to those who matter most?
Week #7 Challenge
Make a conscious effort to really listen to your spouse when you are having a conversation. Put away that cell phone or any other distractions you may have. If you are not married, take the time to pay attention and really listen to those you come in contact with this week.
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