“The first duty of love is to listen.” ~Paul Tillich

The walls in my office seem to be throbbing. I mean this in a good way. So many times our spaces are just that, walls, floors, furniture. But sometimes I become aware of all that has been said in my office, this space where I spend so much of my waking time. That expression: “If these walls could talk…” fits any space and certainly works for these four walls I call a kind-of-home. They have held the joy of announcements…..engagements, soon-to-be-births, new jobs, adventures to be taken. They have also been privy to deep sadness…..broken relationships, funeral planning, lost jobs, grief too great to bear. All spaces have been present to the scope of life’s fullness. Today I just became aware of my walls, my ceiling, my window.

On this day my walls were present to a rich and wonderful conversation. One of the dear ones of our community was trying to sort out several deep and important questions. A few of my colleagues and I created our own version of the Quaker clearness committee, a process of helping someone tap into the inner resources they already have for answering their own important questions. It is, as I understand it, a process of deep listening. It is a forum for asking the questions that will help someone hear themselves in ways that bring clarity to their struggles, their future, their life. Our role as listeners was not to answer any questions or give any advice. Our role was to offer our presence, our hearts. In that heart-filled presence we assumed the Spirit was with us.

What a privilege it was to be a part of this experience! Later I thought of all the people I know who might benefit from such an audience. Young people, older people, middle-aged people, all can blossom in such a setting. As the conversation became less animated, more settled, I began to feel the ‘clearness’ move into the room. I am not sure what eventual action will be taken by this dear one. But I cannot help but believe that being heard was helpful, healing even. I know it was an act of love.

For all those who are searching for answers, for a new vision, or a way out of a difficult spot, my prayer is that you may find at least one person to listen, really listen so you may, eventually, hear yourself into clarity.