"Be genuinely curious, don't be a jerk, and listen closely.
David Isay
On Being
During a recent family visit, I found myself growing more and more quiet as I listened to my adult children telling stories of their childhood. Some I had heard before, but some were new and eye opening. I could feel myself drawing more closely to them with new insight.
Humor runs thick in our family, but as I curbed my tongue giving better momentum to the story teller, I was drawn more deeply into the account. It was also noticeable with less interruption the person sharing was able to express his or her self more completely. No one was judging or making fun comments.
As each of us became less disruptive, we realized the humor was falling away and raw emotions were being revealed. It was amazing to recall the past incident and how it impacted me originally, and to hear it through the heart of my child. Life becomes additionally remarkable when we give value and respect to the stories of our clan.
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