Month: April 2026

Did you ever notice whenever there is a group of folks having a conversation, there is always that quiet person? That individual who focuses on listening rather than talking. The one who places more value on what others have to say, and less on expressing himself.

This person is never me. When I’m in a conversation, I’m always quick to insert my feelings and opinions. Sometimes, I realize I’m not even listening to what the rest are saying. I’m just waiting for an opening in the dialog to jump in and share my thoughts. Kind of makes me wonder if the others are listening to me. Well, I guess at least one person is. The quiet person.

There’s an old saying that God gave us two ears for listening and just one mouth for talking, because listening is twice as important. That’s probably true. And I just can’t wait to talk to somebody about it.

Every morning Sharon fills our two backyard birdfeeders with fresh seed. Minutes later, there is a frenzy of birds flocking to the feeders, pushing and shoving each other, trying desperately to eat enough to satisfy their bellies. It’s every bird for himself (or herself). Life is about their needs. If others get knocked off and don’t get to eat, it’s their problem.

But occasionally we will spot a bird who will secure a beak full of seed, then fly to our backyard oak tree, landing in a nest, and then distributing the seed to others, probably their offspring. Their priority is not themselves. They fight the feeder battle to secure nourishment for others. They understand their purpose is to care for those who can’t care for themselves. They get it.

Do we?