Can you listen to me?

If listening could be a love language, I'm pretty sure that would be mine.

I feel incredibly loved when I know someone is listening.

I'm sure we've all been there... tried to have a conversation with someone that simply CANNOT listen to you fully.

There's the cell phone that chimes with yet another text message, or the computer that never seems to leave the lap... the book that keeps getting glances, or the dishes that just HAVE to be done right.then.

And I'm sure we've all been on the opposite side of that as well. I know I have. The times when I give into the fleshly desire to be selfish, and not give a friend or confidante my undivided attention.

I'm burdened with this today. Maybe it's because as I was hustling around tending to chores around the house last night, sweet Claire grabbed my arm, looked me in the eye and said, "Alyssa, can you listen to me? With your eyes? Please? Just for a second. I just want to ask a question."

With your eyes.

Man. That one little phrase. Major conviction.

But she's right. Listening with my eyes is HUGE.

Or maybe it's because I know what it's like to be silently begging that the phone be put away or the TV be turned off. I know what it's like to feel unworthy of undivided attention because scrolling through FB must be more interesting than anything I have to say. Right?

There is something really beautiful that happens when the agenda is set aside for a few minutes and a listening ear is lent. It's like a refreshing exchange of understanding. Understanding that people are much more important than the recipe that was just pinned on Pinterest. Understanding that friendships, marriages, and relationships grow in part by the ability to just listen.

But more than just listening with ears.

It happens when we listen with our eyes. With our hearts.

My hope and prayer today is this: that listening would go beyond my ears. That listening with just my ears would be the exception to the norm. That my life would be characterized by a heart that cares, that loves... that listens.

A big thank you to those of you who listen with your whole body. When you are engaged and interested, I am encouraged immensely. Love is emanating through your selfless choice to listen.

Love to you,
Alyssa