A Christian’s heavenly journey with his feet on the ground. Treasures shared that are discovered along the way.
Please note that this blog has now moved to: "Senior Eagle walking with Father"

Thursday, June 11, 2009

The Greatest Gift

Most of us need someone to be there for us at some time in our lives and maybe, even be available to listen to others? Surely, this is the greatest gift we can give to another? To really listen.


I want you to listen.

You see ...
I have an ache inside;
a sort of pain,
that really hurts.
It’s been there ...
since I was a child.
I’ve tried to ignore it,
cover it over,
but it won’t go away.
It’s coming to the boil.

Can you listen and
put your agenda to one side?
Give me your attention,
and be there for me?

I don’t want you to fix it
or make it better.
I just need to know
I’ve been heard,
and just possibly ...
understood.

I need to know
I’m safe with you,
that you won’t tell,
because I’m afraid
and ashamed
of what may come out.

But ...

You’re looking at your watch.
Your gaze is elsewhere.
Am I boring you?
Yes,
I know you have problems.
Perhaps another time?

Wayfarerjon

"If the person you are talking to doesn't appear to be listening, be patient. It may simply be that he has a small piece of fluff in his ear." - Winnie the Pooh

“Remember this, my dear friends! Everyone must be quick to listen, but slow to speak and slow to become angry.” James 1: 19 New International Version

7 comments :

  1. Sue said...

    What a beautiful and important post.

  2. Ruth said...

    Powerful piece! Thanks for the reminder...this is something I need to work on with someone in particular, in fact.

    God's grace be with us as those who have that ache we need to share and as those who need to listen!

  3. Anonymous said...

    I really like the poem. I have been blessed by a spiritual Father who listened to me and helped me heal. I pray I can pass what I have received to others. It can be one of the hardest things to do as a counselor. To listen and not fix as others struggle through their pain and confusion. Sometimes I feel a gentle nudge from the spirit. "Just Listen"

  4. duopastorale said...

    Wonderful! Thank you :)

  5. wayfarerjon said...

    I have to say that I still have a lot to learn regarding listening, it's so easy to bring in my own agenda, no matter how well meaning!

  6. Anonymous said...

    Love this! I also love that you use a quote from Winnie the Pooh!

  7. Nikki (Sarah) said...

    good post and love the pooh quote. Sarah