My dear friends, you should be quick to listen and slow to speak or to get angry. James 1:19 (CEV)
It’s important to be present with the people in our lives. It’s very easy to become distracted by things such as our smartphones instead of giving the other person our undivided attention. One of the ways that we can be present is by being quick to listen. During conversations with others, choose to assume the best (about them, their actions, their words, etc.) and try to understand things from their perspective. You will be tempted to listen solely for the purpose of arming yourself with tools to give a rapid response in defense of yourself. Resist that temptation! Listen and communicate with them in the same manner that you would want God to listen and communicate with you. How can you be more present with others?