Who is going to Listen to Me When I Am Not Listening to Myself

 

In the journey of self-discovery and spiritual awakening, we often find ourselves in situations that serve as profound lessons. It is during these moments that we realize the importance of self-awareness, mindfulness, and the power of listening, both to ourselves and to others. Today, I would like to share a personal incident that taught me a valuable lesson about this very aspect of life.

The Incident: With my Wife

Oflet, my wife and I happened to be in one of the friends' house. There were four of us, himself,another friend and two of us. My wife, known for her exceptional social skills, was her usual talkative self. On the other hand, I tend to be more reserved, often preferring to listen rather than speak. Prior to this incident, I had shared with my wife my belief that she should strive to listen more and talk less in social situations. My intention behind this advice was rooted in my spiritual pursuit and my desire to help her unlock the power of mindful listening and, in turn, true wisdom.

The Turning Point: A Lesson in Listening

During that moment at our friends' house, as my wife continued to engage in conversation enthusiastically, I found myself struggling with a dilemma. In front of our friends, I felt compelled to remind her to listen to them as well. I believed that this would not only promote a balanced conversation but also align with my pursuit of a Boddhicitta mind – a mind dedicated to liberating oneself from the samsaric cycle of existence and helping all sentient beings attain enlightenment.

However, this incident took an unexpected turn, one that led me to reflect deeply on my own actions and intentions. While I was urging my wife to listen to our friends, I failed to notice the irony in my own behavior. I had been telling the importance of mindfulness and listening to her, yet I had not been practicing it myself. 

The Lesson Learned: Listening Starts Within

Upon reflection, I realized that I had been neglecting a fundamental aspect of listening – the ability to listen to oneself. While I was externally attentive to what others were saying, I had forgotten to be simultaneously mindful of what was happening within my own body and my surroundings. It was a wake-up call, a lesson in humility and self-awareness.

From this experience, I learned that the journey towards becoming a better listener must begin with listening to ourselves. Before expecting others to listen to us, we must listen to our inner voice, our thoughts, and the sensations within our body. Only by cultivating this inner awareness can we truly understand the power of mindful listening.

 In Conclusion

The incident at our friends' house was a pivotal moment in my journey towards self-realization and spiritual growth. It served as a reminder that our words and actions should align with our beliefs and intentions. Before expecting others to listen to us, we must first listen to ourselves, both in words and in the silence within. By doing so, we can cultivate the wisdom and mindfulness needed to navigate our spiritual path and, ultimately, help others along the way.