As to Understand

As to understand: 

imagine this, just a wish to understand others more than our own desire to explain ourselves, surrendering our need to be right in order to simply be kind. That's the possibility that this particular line represents, asking that we not so much seek to be understood as to understand. Yes, a tall order indeed, but this is a prayer that humbles, making these words truly a living energy that work their magic through us. Of course this doesn't mean that we don't have our own convictions, or that we abandon our own beliefs for the sake of someone else's understanding.

we only ask for the ability to listen,

fully and deeply so.

allowing others to be heard. 

in order to understand anyone our minds must be open, we should be able to offer a giving space of heart-centered compassion where others can be understood. It's a true gift, pure, and it can only be offered when we let go of our own insistent need to always be certain in our view. Again this shouldn't imply that our opinions aren't valid, only that for a moment, briefly even, we just let them be and offer ourselves as a listening place. This is where transformation happens, friendships occur, and long held resentments begin to disappear. It's magical, truly so, based entirely on a single line of kindness...

may I seek less to be understood,

as to understand.

if only for a moment.

~

Love, Eric

To read more from Headless Now, please visit: To Be Consoled

Also, please visit to buy: The Little Book of Listening

Thank you.