Make Space for Words
Often we are taught that in order to become successful it is necessary to be persuasive. Leaders mesmerize us with their inspiring words. Celebrity talk shows feature glib and witty guests. We argue and debate instead of sharing thoughts. The problem, however, is that as soon as we fall in love with what we say and how we sound, we stop listening. We even forget the value of not speaking at all. Forbearance, and extreme forbearance, makes space to listen without judgment—without resorting to snap decisions about “right” and “wrong.”
–Donald Altman, from Living Kindness (Inner Ocean)
