Becoming a Better Listener
I’ve often been told that I’m a good listener, and while that is always my goal, I know I can improve. Recently, I truly realized that there is much more that I need to be doing as a listener, as an ally, as a human being.
I’m sure we all know the state of our country right now. Facebook is flooded with arguments and horrors that make us uncomfortable. And as white people, it’s time we accept the uncomfortable feeling.
Being white gives me a privilege that can be easily forgotten if we let it slip our minds, but I will no longer allow myself to forget about it.
I am not here to engage in any arguments or to even state my opinion on the situation.
All I know is that it takes kindness and compassion to listen to others, to those whose voices are getting lost in the shouts of hatred.
So instead of talking, I am listening.
I am here to urge my white readers to take this time to research everything you can about the #blacklivesmatter movement. Use this time to reflect on the voices that are struggling to be heard.
Yes, even if you disagree with them.
In addition to researching, there is more that you can do! Support Black-Owned businesses. Read voices from people of color. Set your feelings aside to listen to what they are saying.
In my own search to be a better ally and a better listener, I am looking for more voices to hear. I have ordered some books written by black authors, and I am searching for more. (I am open to more suggestions!)
I urge you to take a step back, forget about your own feelings, and face these issues head on in your own research. Let’s be better. And let’s do it together.
A few resources to start your journey:
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