"When the only tool you own is a hammer, every problem begins to resemble a nail." ~Anonymous~

If my spiritual heart can be likened to a Garden, what place has a hammer there?  I can use a hammer to build fences... to lock in the goodness of my Garden Heart... to keep out anyone who might want to damage what has grown there... but what will I have accomplished?   My Garden may be lush and beautiful, but I am become an isolated being.  Something I do not believe we humans are intended to be (and this coming from me... an *introvert*).

What tools, then, can I adopt to grow my Garden Heart well?

THE FIRST TOOL is Listening... the secret of listening well is opening one's heart and mind... paying attention to what is said (as well as unsaid) and forming no answer or retort before the speaker has stopped and one has taken time to process what has been heard.  An active listener makes no assumptions and asks for clarification when necessary.

Sometimes, the most difficult listening we ever undertake is that of hearing ourselves... of recognizing our own need, our own pain, and undertaking a healing journey.  Difficult... but rewarding!  Do not be swayed, my friends!  Open your hearts and minds... hear the whispered secrets of your heart... and other's hearts.  Your life will be more full for it!

*May your Garden Heart sing the music that only a true listener can hear*

SOUNDS OF SILENCE (medley) Simon & Garfunkel