rules of engagement # 7

no matter how much is going on, no matter how busy you become, make sure you slow down and take the time to listen.  perhaps this entry is exclusively for me.  i mean after all, my own experiences have brought me to make this observation.  listening is generally something i'm good at.  something i enjoy doing.  something i take the time to do no matter what else is going on.  however during the last two weeks,  i must apologize.  i have not been so willing to listen, and i have no excuse for it.  

sure, there was the trip to new york.  there is the movie in portland, but when put into the context of the greater perspective, these two things dwindle near the bottom of the importance  list.  so, i apologize for cutting conversations short just because i was being impatient because other things were on my mind, for allowing little things become larger distractions and thus taking me away from you having my complete attention, and for not creating an inviting environment for you to feel completely comfortable to tell me what's on your mind.

forgive me.  i know better.  i'll do better.