From where do I speak, converse, and engage with others? From a place of wanting to impose, command, force, or convince... or from a place of simply sharing an opinion while remaining open to listening to another point of view with respect and a genuine desire to learn?
We can only learn what we do not already know, and that knowledge must come from outside ourselves, because what we already know... we already know!
That is why, if I truly want to learn, it is so important to listen first with openness and without ego. Then I can reflect on what I have heard and take whatever may help me grow.
But if I listen from my ego, defending only what I already believe and trying to "win" or change the other person, then I close myself off. What begins as a conversation can easily become an argument without us even realizing it.
How beautiful and important it is to grow through dialogue based on Respect, Acceptance, and Kindness toward one another.
If you'll allow me, I send you a hug filled with Affection, Respect, and LOVE.
Amor & Paz