As we settle into 2023, we continue to devote ourselves to authentic interactions that bring out the best and, sometimes, the worst in us. As I journey into my seventh year of Columban formation, I share with you my reflection on the “Art of Listening.”
The Art of Listening
By Mosese Wasai Mitchell Yacalevu
Columban Student
As we settle into 2023, we continue to devote ourselves to authentic interactions that bring out the best and, sometimes, the worst in us. As I journey into my seventh year of Columban formation, I share with you my reflection on the “Art of Listening.”
Listening is an element which aids humanity to live a life imbued with the willingness to love authentically, and spurred by humility, patience and empathy. In any stage of our lives, true reconciliation requires people to listen to one another. This creates a healthy rapport. Although there may be difficulties, we must drift away from our comfort zones and be open to risk-driven relationships.
The art of listening has helped me on my discernment journey as an aspiring Columban missionary. My pastoral experience at the National Penitentiary in Manila from 2019 to 2020 enlivened my vocation spirit and rejuvenated a deep sense of empathy, wisdom and understanding in me. Even with my limited grasp of the local language back then, I journeyed with the inmates with their stories and struggles. Tears flowed at times, as they poured out their hearts in a space of vulnerability and holiness. My patience was tested too, but at the end of the day I felt an ocean of divine love, stirred by the Spirit that kept us going for the journey. From this experience, my heart was ingrained with Gospel virtues. Moreover, my myopic understanding of mission especially in this sacred space of deep listening was transformed for the best.
Let me share with you the story of a young man who had a problem with his inheritance. Their parent’s estate had been unevenly divided, with the young man inheriting with less than his sister. He had requested his sister to voluntarily divide their share of the inheritance. She refused, saying that she was the one who took care of their parents at old age and therefore, it was only right that she receive a larger share of the estate. Angry at their dead parents, the man vowed never to have any contact with his sister again. As time passed, he reconsidered the situation and decided that it was more important to have his sister back in his life. He invited his sister to meet him for lunch one day. After a few moments at the table, both became defensive as their discussion turned to the issue that originally caused their estrangement. Once again, many words were exchanged. But when they needed most to listen, they closed their ears, leaving the issue unresolved.
May we always exercise the “art of listening” in order to build bridges of understanding. When we refuse to listen to one another, there can be no growth, no transformation, and ultimately no lasting reconciliation and endeared reconnection. Let there be peace in our listening hearts for the betterment and nourishment of the soul.