Are You Listening?

As a speech language pathologist I spend my days welcoming into my office little people, most under 3 ft tall and their parents as they come to their weekly auditory verbal therapy session. These wonderful dedicated parents travel each week, some for many miles to learn to teach their hearing impaired child to listen and talk. With the technology we have today this is a daily event, children learning to listen and talk. It is hard work for these parents. It takes patience, courage, perseverance, and a bit of grit. You know that edge that helps you over the humps?

Today was no exception, children were welcomed at the waiting room door and most of them now give me the biggest smile and call out my name as if they can't wait to see what I am going to have for them this time. These brave parents follow them back, most of the time with a smile, sometimes with a weariness from the daily grind but always eager to share and learn.

The most special of days is when a child who has not heard suddenly through hearing aids or cochlear implants can now hear. That is a banner day for these parents. While they are anxious, they are also grateful.
Today I saw a young child on his second day after cochlear implant activation. There were noticeable differences in his communication, he was hearing us and responding well. I thought to myself, he is going to be a listener.

After some reflection about listening, I realized that is what I would like for people to say about me. She is a listener. My isn't talking so much easier. Our brains just think of what to say...or not...and out come the words. But to listen, now that is a gift we can give so many others.

What does it take to be an active listener?  Paying attention, showing you are listening, providing feedback to make sure you are understanding, deferring judgement until we can clarify, then responding accordingly with respect and care. Sounds easy! Most of us think we are listeners.

I am grateful today that I have friends who remind me to listen more closely, expect me to listen openly, and listen to me when I need an ear. Bless these precious children also, who are learning to do just that!