The gist of this paper is that “listening as connecting” is an elemental way of serving others in a supportive relationship. It is most important to emphasize this relationship in the everyday world of work and service. And further, that... more
The gist of this paper is that “listening as connecting” is an elemental way of serving others in a supportive relationship. It is most important to emphasize this relationship in the everyday world of work and service. And further, that any serious sense of service relies on this basic quality of relationship—listening as connecting—prior to any established agenda. In support of this way of listening this paper reviews selected literature in the fields of listening, religion/spirituality and philosophy, and sorts out a coherent sense of listening as connecting.
There is ancient wisdom that the path to the spiritual, as well as success in life, comes through love, meditation and service—for some it is the double act: love and serve. There is also the maxim that service is as important as... more
There is ancient wisdom that the path to the spiritual, as well as success in life, comes through love, meditation and service—for some it is the double act: love and serve. There is also the maxim that service is as important as meditation (prayer), and valuable for human spiritual development. If we attend to the needs of the other we forget our own needs and advance spiritually. That said we must recognize that listening is a potent form of service for relationships, communities, and ultimately for humanity itself. We say giving is more important than receiving, but listening is a giving that is a true gift. (this paper is copyrighted by the Global Listening Center)
