The last to speak

I often look at people around me and find it fascinating how many of them aren't listening, or are focused on what's important to them! They're preparing their next lines, but they're not listening to what's being said.

A friend told me a long time ago: “Why do we have two ears and only one mouth?  To me, it's an art to know how to listen, just as it is to master communication! Of course, it's easier to remember the last person to speak than the first! If we go to a show, we'll remember the last song more than the one in the middle of the concert.    

Nelson Mandela always reserved the option of speaking last. He heard what others had to say first, so they felt understood and they felt they were collaborating. Afterwards, Nelson Mandela had the ability to redirect and reinforce his speech according to the information he gathered. He could amplify the impact of his words on the audience.    

It seems that people want to express themselves and don't want to listen. We've all met annoying people who think they're great, or others who are just plain stupid! You can never talk intelligently with someone who isn't! Cemeteries are full of people who thought they were essential.  

I'll never forget that supervisor who asked me if I'd throw myself off the bridge if she asked me to! I replied: “You're a &%#@ !@@ crazy woman, never! She was impertinent as well as insipid!

Whether you're the first or the last to speak, if you're respectful, attentive and keep your ear to the ground instead of launching into a monologue, you'll have good exchanges that will be appreciated by all!