“If speaking is silver, then listening is gold.” –Turkish proverb

Listening is a magnetic and creative force.
When we are listened to, it creates us, makes us unfold and expand.
When we are listened to, ideas begin to grow within us and come to life.
People are more happy and free when they are listened to.
Creative listeners want others to be themselves, even at their very worst. True listeners know that if you are bad-tempered, it does not mean you are always so.
As we listen, there is an alternating current that recharges us so we are constantly being recreated as well.
Unless you listen, you can’t know anyone. You will know facts and have impressions, but not really know them.
The most serious result of not listening is boredom (for it is really the death of caring and love).
Not listening seals people off from each other more than anything else does.
Listening provides the fertile soil from which positive decisions and changes can develop.
Listening is one of the best gifts of all we can offer to all people.

Adapted from Strength to Your Sword Arm: Selected Writings, Brenda Ireland, Holy Cow Press, 1992