I stood content against the backdrop, watching everyone having a great time. I chose to be a solitary figure temporarily, in a room full of people, quietly standing with a drink in hand. Relaxed, I didn’t find the need to converse. Not a wallflower per se, but merely comfortable with just being present. Couples embraced, laughed at each other’s comments, and mingled with others. Typically, I would circulate among the attendees without delay but this evening was different. I viewed this time as a gift, simply observing all the guests.
I looked down, making another swirl with the straw to mix the mint in the mojito mocktail, when I felt someone looking my way. As I glanced up, a shy smile appeared on her face and I returned the gesture. She was the host of the party, standing among a group appearing somewhat uncomfortable and quiet. I felt it was time to mingle and casually slipped in and out of each huddle taking part in idle chatter. I didn’t think much about the evening in particular, except for reminiscing on the great time we had. A week later, I accepted an invitation from the said host, to join her for lunch. A lunch which revealed so much more, more than expected.
When you’re surrounded by all these people, it can be even lonelier than when you’re by yourself. You can be in a huge crowd, but if you don’t feel like you can trust anybody or talk to anybody, you feel like you’re really alone.
THE GIFT OF LISTENING
We don’t always see the complete picture. Nor do we have a full depiction. We see only the fragments and the snippets believing that is all there is to see. But when standing away from the crowd, there is much more to the story. I learned her family treated her as an outcast. She hadn’t spoken to her mother in three years and her father sided with other family members. I heard how her brother embarrassed her in public, how her sister took a secret and divulged it. I listened intently as she shared how her best friend stepped across the line.
The bond that links your true family is not one of blood, but of respect and joy in each other’s life.
THE GIFT OF AN OPEN HEARTED STRANGER
The two-hour lunch depicted a different story in which someone’s life appeared perfect to onlookers but was far from perfection. What we catch sight of isn’t always what it appears to be. It doesn’t matter how real some things look. From the outside looking in, what seems ideal could be far from idyllic. Sometimes all we have left is a stranger who we place our trust in, who is willing to listen to our story. Someone who is far removed, objective, and willing to truly listen with an open heart.
The greatest gift that you can give to others is the gift of unconditional love and acceptance.
5 comments
I struggle with this business of listening with an open heart. With that said, I’m looking forward to reading more of your blog posts.
You actually make it seem so easy with the way you present it. I find this topic rather difficult, and it’s something I think I would never quite understand. It’s complicated, depends on the situation. We don’t always see the true picture. To listen without judgment. I’m looking forward to your next post!
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