The Art of Listening

THE ART OF LISTENING:

Beloved brethren, the recent events in Kenya has taught me the difference between hearing and listening. 

We are hearing GenZs: but we are not listening to them.

The day we will listen to them, their response will be very different from what we see now.

In a world full of noise, there is a profound difference between hearing and listening. 

We often hear sounds, words, and conversations, without necessarily listening. 

Listening is an active, intentional act. 

It is about paying attention not just to the words being spoken, but to the emotions, the unspoken needs, and the heart behind the message. 

It is about empathy, understanding, and connecting with the person speaking.

Leaders must embrace the art of listening. 

A good leader understands that to serve their people effectively, they must first understand their real needs, their hopes, and their concerns. 

This understanding does not come from assumptions: but from dedicated, empathetic listening. 

When leaders truly listen, they build trust, foster collaboration, and pave the way for genuine progress.

You don't become a leader for "people to understand you": 

you become a leader "to understand the people"

Proverbs 18:13 wisely states:

"He that answereth a matter before he heareth it, it is folly and shame unto him."

Let us cultivate the art of listening in our daily lives: in our homes, our workplaces, and our communities. 

Hearing is not listening:

Listening is more than hearing.

Boniface Amani Gichina (CPM)