Day 350 of #LiveWell2017

Here’s another gift that will cost you nothing but a little time. Give (or lend) an ear to a friend who needs to talk.

“Listening with compassion will help him empty his heart and suffer less.” – Thich Nhat Hanh

Sometimes when we are going through a rough patch, trying to make a big decision, or even celebrating an accomplishment, we just want someone to listen to what we have to say, to listen to what’s in our heart at the moment. Sometimes we need to tell our closest family members a secret from our past or share the news that we are getting married or having a baby or have fallen in love.

One of the best gifts you can give to someone is the gift of listening to them – really listening. Thich Nhat Hanh calls it compassionate listening. Not talking or advising, not commiserating or sympathizing, not judging or fixing, but simply being there with them and listening. Your only role is to listen, to let them empty their heart so they can reduce their suffering.

Pay attention. When someone needs you to lend them an ear, just be there.