So I have returned from my trip, no longer on the wear and tear, and relieved that the retracing went as smoothly as it did. A few weeks ago a friend of mine taught my YL Leadership a lesson about listening, and how asking questions and just listening can be one of the most powerful tools to have. Well I tried it this weekend--instead of talking my way into 'proving' I had changed, I simply shut up and listened intently to the people I care so much about. I have to say that it was a miracle how much active listening can do to alter a situation, or change another's mind. It's a tough thing to do, as it forces the spotlight off of myself and onto my friend. To do it consistantly would take self-confidance that I don't know if I possess, but I'd sure like to. Amazing what doors can open and what God can do when one just shuts up and listens.
Another note: Saw "13 Going on 30" today w/Amber and Kristine--I wonder, if I could sit down and talk to my 13-year-old self, what would we talk about? Am I where I thought I'd be? Am I the 'cool' person I imagined myself to be at this age? Would I embarass the crap out of myself? Would I disappoint my dreams? Would I be able to look back on that time and simply laugh?
I wonder how much of our actions today are dictated by events that happened long ago, continually trying to make up for rejections and lost opportunities and hurt feelings and being overly self-aware.
