The Art of Listening

[Bengalzona]

(07-29-2019, 09:23 AM)GMDino Wrote: Inspiring...but at some point while listening did she not have to explain that his views were wrong?  She may not have been critical or "ugly" to him but she had to (gently) explain that he was wrong.  Unless he discovered he was wrong himself...which is rare among those with deeply held views.  He might have been fringe compared to other members of his group.

Being "wrong" is the what I have found is the hardest part in changing one's mind (mine or anyone else's).  

Personal ego getting in the way of personal advancement.

But don't get me wrong, I love the message of gently turning people by showing them you are a real person who can deal them as a another human being and equal no matter their views.

He discovered that he was wrong. And, for people entrenched in a similar group and/or ideology, it is the only way it can truly happen. In the additional links above, I have a link from a former member of the Westboro Baptist Church who also had a revelation. But it won't happen with someone who is arguing in their face or shouting insults at them. That is de-humanizing. It happens with someone who disagrees with them, but still treats them with respect and dignity... even though their ideology may be ugly and reprehensible. As Dr. Martin Luther King said, "Talk with people where they are at." And one of the best ways to show someone respect is to listen to them, even if you don't agree with them.