Today I was reminded of how kind it can be to simply be a good listener. I have someone who I've worked with for a number of years and through that relationship we've become friends. He's had many ups and downs over those years and faced many difficult challenges. As a friend and supporter, I've played a variety of roles, depending upon what's most needed at any particular time.
Sometimes, like today, what's needed is simply to listen. We spent almost 2 hours together and I offered almost no advice, no brilliant suggestions, no pearls of wisdom. To be sure, there are times when that can be helpful. This wasn't one of them. It was a time to allow another person to empty his mind and to talk through all the various issues going on. I could tell that it was therapeutic for him to have that opportunity, and it was my pleasure to be able to play my part.
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