Practicing Stillness: Listening

Four Breton Women, 1886, Paul Gauguin, (1848-1903) oil on canvas, 28.2 x 35.9.
Image Source

Guilty! I hear myself say…

Have you ever been so busy thinking about what you wanted to say next that you didn’t really listen to what your friend or loved one was trying to share with you?

I know I have, and I am resolved to do better. And this is where our journey of Practicing Stillness leads us this week: What if we all started practicing stillness when we were in the presence of our family and friends?

What if we all spent a bit more time taming our minds from jumping here and there and really listened and internalized what the other person was trying to express? What if instead of interrupting with our own stories, we asked questions; gave compliments; honored and treasured them as they share their day with us?

I love this painting by Gauguin and I am trying to imagine why he painted this circle of women? I’m sure he was fascinated with their traditional dress, but also I think he found something about their presence inspiring. The sight of them maybe caused him to feel a longing for community. I can see how the harmony of their circle must have captured and mesmerized him. Just simple country folk who work together and meet up at the end of the day to rest and catch up with one another. Don’t we all need this in our lives?

Scriptures:

“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ” Gal 6:2

“Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. Show hospitality to one another without grumbling. As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another…”

I Peter 4 8-10

Closing:

This week I hope that we can say little prayer before each encounter. That we ask God to bless our exchange of ideas and help us to be a blessing to one another.

Where do you go to meet up with friends?

May God Bless Each Encounter this Week!

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