On listening

I don't want to sound cocky, but for as long as I can remember, people have been coming to me for advice- about love, relationships, etc. I didn't really understand why- I thought it was because I'm an open person, or maybe because I'm easy to talk to. I love talking- one of the things I enjoy most in life is good conversation, especially deep conversation.

However, I feel that over the past few years, I've learned how to give even better advice: Listening.

I can't tell you how many times I've interrupted people over the years- way, way too many. I think it's a combination of selfishness and ignorance- trying to get your two cents in before the other person can finish their sentence. But what happened was I would spend so much time figuring out what I wanted to say so I could solve someone's problem, I wouldn't stop and listen to what was really on their mind. Stupid, huh? Well, yea, but you can't blame someone for getting caught up trying to help a friend.

I truly love talking with people about almost anything and when someone ever wants my help with something, I jump at the chance to possibly be part of the solution to their problem. The thing is, sometimes people just want someone to listen, and that's it. I want all of you to know that if there is anything you ever want to talk about, I'm willing to hear it.