The Dragon's Head Blog: Relearn How to Listen

Each week, I participate in virtual meetings of the Fung Loy Kok Institute of Taoism – the directors transmit Master Moy’s teachings to us and participants share their discoveries. During the first sessions, I wanted to remember everything, to take notes on everything. I interpreted and analyzed the statements only from my own point of view. Sometimes, my emotions were on a roller coaster, and other times, my attention and interest quickly faded because the subject had already been discussed. My mind was often agitated, punctuated by resistance, by ‘yes but’.

I observed that by overcoming my worry about not remembering everything and by simply letting phrases or words resonate within me, my listening becomes more intuitive. Some phrases have a more significant impact like “removing oneself from the equation” and “having a broader vision.” They accompany me in my daily life and have become a path to follow.

Slowly my listening is changing. I’m gradually calming down and feeling more empathy. By having a broader vision and not dwelling on details, I am less emotional, which is beneficial in many situations in my daily life.

I realize that listening requires much more than attention. It also requires having a clear intention, trust, openness, and quietude. Each day, I relearn how to listen.