250618 Listen Well

 Listen Well


Know I don't always listen well
For I have way too much to tell
So what I listen for's a break
To make the point I want to make 

Too often I'm distractable
Keep focused  - near impossible 
Thus, if it's truly as I fear
I only listen with one ear

For many times I multitask
So I may miss some things you ask
In hopes that I do not offend
Might need you to repeat again

To listen well might be lost art
Technology has played a part
With phone, can hear you from Peru
Yet, truly listen, might not do

Though phones and various screens are swell
Contribute to not listening well
For all of us have been or seen
Someone distracted by a screen

Electronics can cast a spell 
Mere symptom when don't listen well
For what you pay attention to
Shows what may mean the most to you

One shouldn't have to shout or yell
To get someone to listen well
May only need loving reminder 
You'd like to be heard; that way's kinder

Sure, can make various excuses 
But, honestly the real truth is
No matter who's your clientele 
Respectful, if you listen well

When they talk and you're fully there
The clearest sign you truly care
Thus, love and interest, you can't hide it
When your attention's undivided 

So, put all other tasks aside
Look them directly in the eye
Keep your own urge to talk at bay
Allowing them to have their say

The Lord wants you to listen well
For he has much he wants to tell
The wisdom of a Father's heart
His hope and comfort to impart

But, if distracted, you won't hear
His tender whispers in your ear
And if you come, but only talk
His loving guidance, you then block

We all want to be listened to
And God, the Father wants that too
Thing not coerced or pleaded for
But as one loved, whom you adore

So, truly listen to the Lord
In prayer and reading of the Word
Then move to those with whom you dwell
And pledge today to listen well

Next, broaden to those in your sphere
Genuinely listen,  not just hear
And when you do, I think you'll find
That others will listen in kind

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