As the leaves begin to turn and the air takes on a crispness, we find ourselves in a season ripe for the practice of deep listening. Deep listening is not just hearing the words spoken; it’s engaging with the silence between those words, the emotions behind them, and the unspoken truths they carry. It requires a quieting of our own thoughts, an openness of heart, and a willingness to be changed by what we hear.
In our personal lives, deep listening invites us to slow down and truly be present with one another. Whether it’s with a friend, a partner, or even in a moment of solitude, we can practice deep listening by giving our full attention, suspending judgment, and being curious about what lies beneath the surface. It’s about listening not just with our ears, but with our whole being.
Our congregation, too, is called to embrace this practice. What would it look like for us to listen deeply to each other’s stories, to the needs of our community, and to the still, small voice of our collective spirit? How might we create spaces where every voice feels heard and valued, where we can explore the difficult questions without fear of division?
This practice is especially crucial in our broader world, where deep listening is often absent. In a time of deep partisan divides, we are challenged to listen—truly listen—to those whose views differ from our own. This doesn’t mean we must agree, but it does mean we approach with empathy, seeking to understand rather than to convince.
As we move through October, let us lean into the practice of deep listening in all its forms, opening ourselves to the wisdom it offers and the connections it can create.
Blessings on this journey of listening, within and beyond our walls.
Rev. Michelle