Listen

 

One of the skills we work on helping our students (and teachers!) develop is the ability to be still and really listen.  

To choose what they are focusing on.

To actively calm. 

This is a skill that comes more naturally to some than others, but all can build it over time.

One key way I illustrate and teach this principal is to actively calm and listen for the quiet hum of the fluorescent lights.  

At first the kids won't notice it,  but as we collectively quiet, it becomes more noticeable.  

And then an amazing thing happens.  The more closely you listen, the further you are able to hear as your brain zooms in on that task and moves energy from others.  For example, you might now also hear  the water in the pipes, students in the hall, and even individual voices from neighboring rooms.  

Keep listening and you may hear the other sounds of a school building- the tick of the clock you didn't know made noise at all.  The clang of the chains on the swings on the playground.  The scratching of pencils hard at work next door. 

As students practice this skill, we find that not only does their focus increase, but their composure and self-regulation as well.

Sunday as I sat in reflection during the sacrament, I became aware that I could hear the buzzing of the lights in the chapel.  

 I wondered why I don't usually hear it and why I heard it at that moment.

The answer came immediately. 

Because I was listening better. 

Something I have been consciously working on.

The Holy Ghost works the same way.  

When we listen at a surface level we might get some general impressions. 

But  we can close out the distractions one by one and really choose to listen.  We can pull our whole heart and soul in.  We can  surrender our will to Heavenly Father and let him mold us.

No preconceived answers; just listening. 

Then we get better at it.  We start to get more detailed understanding, calm assurances and inspirations for us and others. 

As Sister Carol B Thomas instructed, "Spirituality is learning how to listen to the Spirit and then letting it govern our lives."

Listen closely.  Guidance is waiting.