simply listen: “… There is not a listener, there is simply listening, listening to both the inner and outer world without comparison, judgment, and so on …” ~ Jean Klein
Indeed simply – or pure – listening does not involve assessments, or effort, of any kind: no interpreting … no analysing … no trying to understand … no responding.
It begins with no intention and does not even attempt to draw a conclusion. It is simply an openness – a stillness – where what is heard is received without interference … and instead is simply held. Sounds, words arrive and pass without any urge to respond.
It seems, what we usually call listening carries a movement or action: comparison with “something,” preparing a reply. But in simple listening, this movement is absent: nothing is added … nothing is sought.
And in such absence, something becomes clear — not as an insight gained, but as a direct seeing: the heard and the hearing are no longer separate …
A point Jean Klein has made repeatedly:
“… When you are aware in listening, there is no listener and nothing is listened to. There is only listening …”
In such listening, maybe what comes is simply received … and in this, something is quietly at ease.
Perhaps this ease … this listening … may be a “seed” of peace? …
As Jean Klein underscores in his teachings:
“… Listening is the background of all that appears …”
May you notice … the listening … that is already here …
Ongoing health matters and other commitments continue to significantly limit our time towards Stillness Speaks … but instead of going on hiatus … we’ll continue to offer these brief reflection posts through April, as life permits. We remain deeply grateful for your patience and understanding.
First two (opening and the 1st blockquote) Klein quotes from his The Book of Listening.
The 3rd Klein quote from his The Ease of Being.
Images (edited): 1 (& Featured): Misty spring morning at Rydal Water in the English Lake District with calm reflections in water by DanielKay. All images purchased from depositphotos or 123rf. All are for use only on our website/social channels (these images are not permitted to be shared separate from this post).
