Thanks for Listening

Heavenly Father listens to all our prayers. We should listen to His inspiration and to those around us. Does not mean we should try to fix or judge them, just listen.

Finding a place to live fresh from college was challenging, especially as a dime-a-dozen graphic designer. One apartment offered a finished attic crawl space bedroom with shared common areas. I could not fully stand up in my bedroom, but only paid $80/mo, utilities included. Eventually, I moved to a 3-person rental, each with their own room. One roommate was open and talkative, while the other kept to himself. Always looking down as he scurried by. After a while, this shy roommate started asking me what I did for work, where I was from, etc. It was almost like a background check, although still guarded about his life.

Over the next couple of months, we all hung out a few times and found things in common to laugh about. Finally, the shy one opened up to me in confidence about how he was making ends meet. I listened without judgment. I thanked him for trusting me, and his secret was safe. After his reveal, our discussions became more analytical. Pros and Cons. Helping him understand his future if he kept this path. It was grim. Was the risk worth it? He had to make up his mind. He was an insecure kid, searching for guidance.

After my lease ended, I moved out. Never had any arguments, just found a much better location I could not pass up. Two years later, I was visiting a friend's church far from where I lived. As I entered the foyer, I heard my name. Some happy dude gave me a bro hug and asked if I remembered him. I did not recognize him. He pulled me aside and said "After you left our apartment, I thought more about our Pros and Cons list. It was not worth the risk anymore. Thanks for listening." I was blown away at how my shy ex-roommate cleaned up his life, and his countenance showed it. I had no clue I made a difference.

God inspired me to live in that apartment for a time. And He inspired me when to leave. I am glad I listened.

And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring.

Most people do not listen with the intent to understand; they listen with the intent to reply.