Lend an ear, will you?

​Listen to people talk. Pay close attention to their words and the way they say them. The more you listen, the more you get to know them. Their insecurities characterized by subtle stutters and pauses; their passions by breathless bursts of speech or slightly raised tones; their state of misery by a low pitch and forced, emotionless words. Make them feel like everything they say matters–even the most insignificant of rants. It might be hard to not let your mind drift away, but try. Especially when they’re keenly willing to spend their time and energy verbalizing their thoughts, emotions and hopes to you. Because the reason you’re on the receiving end is because you matter to them. Make sure you reciprocate. Listen.