A Lesson In Human Understanding And Compassion
Start writing a post
Student Life

A Lesson In Human Understanding And Compassion

"I may not understand, but I can listen."

53
A Lesson In Human Understanding And Compassion
Pexels

As human beings, we harbor an innate yearning for understanding.

This understanding can appear to us in a variety of forms--from conceptual to emotional. We often mention how parents, siblings, significant others, and other people who cross our path "do not understand" us. The claim of being misunderstood is one of intrigue, as language is the foundation and creation of understanding amongst individuals. Our ability to verbally communicate with one another and display a variety of emotions and ideas via tone, diction, and body language allows for an expensive scope of self-expression. Human interaction via speech is a fascinating thing.

Transversely, it also has been said that "language is the source of misunderstandings." This particular type of understanding is less rooted in concept, and more founded on context. The way each of us thinks, speaks, reacts to and interacts with others determines whether we find ourselves to be of accord with like-minded individuals, or not. When other people are not on our wavelength, we tend to view that as a type of misunderstanding. As my grandfather would say, "a failure to communicate."

Recently, I was discussing a personal problem with my 14-year-old sister, and in noticing how distraught I seemed, she rubbed my back and said

"I may not understand, but I can listen."

That, my friends, is what the rest of us have been missing. Ironically, that is what we have been misunderstanding. We get angry at others and create a commotion because sometimes we are simply looking for the wrong thing. More often than not, when we complain about being misunderstood, it is not so much that we are looking for someone to know what we are saying, as much as we are looking for someone to listen to what we have to say. Language is the source of misunderstanding in that sometimes there is too much talking, and not enough listening going on. Previously I mentioned that it is how we use language that causes misunderstanding, and I find it to be true. When we overuse ours and don't tune into the unique language the other person is speaking, we lose the message they are trying to convey to us.

We don't want someone to understand, we need someone who will listen.

We need someone to let us rant and rave and let out every little thing we have let build up inside--good or bad--so long that it makes us feel like we are going to explode. For once, you are allotted a moment to speak that is all your own without interjection. True understanding can only begin to develop and later evolve through this process. If four people are talking all at once, nobody understands and nobody listens, either. But if one person gets their one moment to express themselves, and allows their conversation partner(s) to respond in kind, you will find that a productive conversation arises from listening closely, deriving meaning, and addressing what was mentioned.

This tactic goes for all things from hearing how someone's day at work was to working out an argument with a loved one. In recognizing that listening, even when you do not understand right away, will eventually bring you understanding, you are doing yourself and others a service. Learning how to listen is also learning how to have compassion. Maybe you "agree" with what you are being told, maybe you do not. The point is that you are listening, which is helping you to develop compassion towards others and positive ways to relate to your loved ones.

This part is hard, because when we listen and hear something we do not like, we may have an abrasive response. The best way to combat that is by letting someone fully explain themselves, even if you may not like how the conversation started out. By fully listening, you can have the time to process your response. Taking a moment to yourself and letting your friend know "I'm thinking about what you just said and I want to respond in the best way I know how" is never a bad idea. All valuable relationships take time and dedication.

Being gentle with others may not be easy, but it is worth it. Try to listen, even if you do not understand. Sometimes we all just need someone. Be that someone, and you'll find you get your someone right back.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Adulting

Unlocking Lake People's Secrets: 15 Must-Knows!

There's no other place you'd rather be in the summer.

938454
Group of joyful friends sitting in a boat
Haley Harvey

The people that spend their summers at the lake are a unique group of people.

Whether you grew up going to the lake, have only recently started going, or have only been once or twice, you know it takes a certain kind of person to be a lake person. To the long-time lake people, the lake holds a special place in your heart, no matter how dirty the water may look.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

Top 10 Reasons My School Rocks!

Why I Chose a Small School Over a Big University.

115363
man in black long sleeve shirt and black pants walking on white concrete pathway

I was asked so many times why I wanted to go to a small school when a big university is so much better. Don't get me wrong, I'm sure a big university is great but I absolutely love going to a small school. I know that I miss out on big sporting events and having people actually know where it is. I can't even count how many times I've been asked where it is and I know they won't know so I just say "somewhere in the middle of Wisconsin." But, I get to know most people at my school and I know my professors very well. Not to mention, being able to walk to the other side of campus in 5 minutes at a casual walking pace. I am so happy I made the decision to go to school where I did. I love my school and these are just a few reasons why.

Keep Reading...Show less
Lots of people sat on the cinema wearing 3D glasses
Pinterest

Ever wonder what your friend meant when they started babbling about you taking their stapler? Or how whenever you ask your friend for a favor they respond with "As You Wish?" Are you looking for new and creative ways to insult your friends?

Well, look no further. Here is a list of 70 of the most quotable movies of all time. Here you will find answers to your questions along with a multitude of other things such as; new insults for your friends, interesting characters, fantastic story lines, and of course quotes to log into your mind for future use.

Keep Reading...Show less
New Year Resolutions

It's 2024! You drank champagne, you wore funny glasses, and you watched the ball drop as you sang the night away with your best friends and family. What comes next you may ask? Sadly you will have to return to the real world full of work and school and paying bills. "Ah! But I have my New Year's Resolutions!"- you may say. But most of them are 100% complete cliches that you won't hold on to. Here is a list of those things you hear all around the world.

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

The Ultimate Birthday: Unveiling the Perfect Day to Celebrate!

Let's be real, the day your birthday falls on could really make or break it.

96069
​different color birthday candles on a cake
Blacksburg Children's Museum

You heard it here first: birthdays in college are some of the best days of your four years. For one day annually, you get to forget about your identity as a stressed, broke, and overworked student, and take the time to celebrate. You can throw your responsibilities for a day, use your one skip in that class you hate, receive kind cards and gifts from loved ones and just enjoy yourself.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments