James 1:19 gives us wonderful insight into this. “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry…” In other words, it’s a lesson into the art of active listening, thoughtful and deliberate responses, and resisting the need for emotional outbursts. Let’s be candid, we often feel very uncomfortable with silence as our mind races to fill the void with words. But there’s self-control and integrity in silence. (Ecclesiastes 3:7) And if I learned anything during my long Nursing career it was that companionable silence was okay and often welcomed by the other person. So listen deeply, ask open ended questions in order to validate their feelings, and don’t allow your own emotions to distract you from being present for them. This is where practicing the pause is so important… as we reflect on what they are saying before voicing any impulsive or reactionary remarks, unsolicited advice, or mindless chatter.
Safetypinlove 