The Gift of Listening

Never be too busy to listen to a story or to get to know someone, especially someone older than yourself; you'd be amazed at what you may learn and the wonderful, unexpected blessing you may receive.

Supper time, especially on the Free Night of a convention or conference is a hectic time especially if it falls on a Friday. Last night was our free night and we were meeting a dear friend at a popular restaurant. The sidewalks were crowded and an older gentleman was struggling as he walked and he kept apologizing to all as he walked. I recognized the color of his lanyard as his being clergy and from our conference, though I did not yet know him. He apologized to us for his walking so slow and both Nellie and I said there was no need and I extended my hand to greet him and he began a marvelous conversation but he reached a point where he said that due to a dinner with retirees he had not come to the restaurant we were coming with his group and tonight they had abandoned him and he was coming on his own. He asked if he could dine with us. With no hesitation we said he could. We knew our dear friend would not mind and ours was a rich evening filled with wonderful stories.

There was pain and sorrow shared, but God was in our midst and grace was ours.

Never be too busy to listen or to get to know someone.