I’m still here because of people who showed care by listening.

By Dwayne Baraka - Less than a 2 minute read. (this is a powerful blog, spend 2 minutes of your time, reading and then contemplating)

I love hearing people’s stories. People often tell me things their inner thoughs, and I

mostly find it easy to hear their worries, world-view and challenges. I’ve always

thought it was a gift to really listen.

But sometimes I would forget to talk.

There was a time when I thought I had no-one. When joy disappeared. It felt like all

the important people in my life were criticising everything about me. Even things I

really liked about myself.

So I quit talking.

I quit sharing.

I tried to quit life.

What brought me back wasn’t advice, clever words or pithy sayings. It was friends —

and sometimes strangers — who took a moment to be real. Who listened.

They gave me space.

And time.

And connection.

Sometimes they shared their story too, which I loved! But they always actively

listened.

Let me say stupid things.

Take things back.

And always wanted to hear how I was.

I’m still here because some people listened. Because they said things like “I don’t

have any advice for you”. And didn’t try to solve anything.

Because they knew that to really listen is a sacred, profound act of care and

humanity.

I’m still here because of people who showed care by listening.

And if you want to get better at listening, here are three phrases that helped me

when I talked.

“I see you. You matter to me.”

“Thanks for sharing that with me. Thanks.”

And if you’re talking, instead of saying “Sorry” when you’ve said to much, just say,

“Hey, thanks for listening. It really helps”.