Why I Listen a Lot

When I was still a kid, I used to stand in front of my house, at the front yard, looking up the sky, waiting for my favorite bird (I assume it belongs to the eagle family). When that bird already flew up the sky and shrieked its high pitched sound, I took my turn to imitate its shrieking sound, very loud. Then the bird shrieked again. Then my turn. Again and again until I stopped because my mom asked me to stop.

For me, it was fun doing it at that time. I also used to imitate the sounds of the birds in my house. My father was a bird lover, and he also taught me how to communicate with them. Because of my immature voice, it was easy for me to be in tune with the birds' high pitched sound.

Growing up, I feel very grateful with my need to listen. I listen to early morning birds. I listen to the drippings of water after the rain. I listen to the tickings of the clock. It feels like enjoying the music. I can even hear the music when I listen to the sound of a fan or an air conditioner.

That is why, perhaps, my ears are like magnets for some people around me who want to tell their stories, share their problems, or even talk about their secrets. They seem sure that I can be a good listener. I can't say to myself that I am a good listener. But when they start talking, I just focus on their words, really paying attention to every word they say.

So, the reason why I listen a lot is that I feel the need to tune in the here and the now. I need to be thankful for the present God has given to me; the present moment.