Rediscovering the Art of Listening in a Polarized World

Does it seem like no one wants to listen to anyone anymore?   The world has become so polarized. The struggle in the Middle East now is just one more example.

People want to state their position, and if we do not agree with them, we all head to our corners, and the dialog stops. What happened to collaboration, compromise, and finding common ground? 

This past week, we were involved in a few meetings where it became clear the issue was people were not listening to each other’s views and perspectives and were so focused on what they thought or what they wanted to say that they failed to really “understand” and seek the common ground.   The results were not good.

As we all work on our personal and professional relationships, we think listening is important to building strong interpersonal relationships.  

James 1:19 says, “My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this:  Everyone should be quick to LISTEN and slow to speak and become angry.”  

How about we hang this verse in our board rooms, meeting rooms, and even the Halls of Congress? The gift of listening is often overlooked in a world filled with noise and distraction. Truly taking time to listen to each other and understanding others’ views and perspectives has been lost.

To do this requires us to turn up our humility meter, set aside our own opinions and biases, open ourselves up to listening, and, at a minimum, take time to understand and gain insight into why someone might feel differently. If we listen, we can hopefully bridge divides, break down barriers, and find “the common ground.”

Proverbs 18:2 says, “Fools have no interest in understanding; they only want to air their own opinions.” 

No truer words could be spoken when you look at our world today.

As we look ahead, let’s challenge ourselves to be better listeners. We are seeking to “understand before being understood.” Hopefully, it will create some space for healing and peace and, most importantly, honor one another and the unique creations of God.