Beyond the Barrier of Thought

In truth, many of us rarely listen fully—not with the kind of focus a cat embodies.

Often, we find ourselves listening through a filter of our own biases, judgments, and preconceived notions. We tend to wait for our opportunity to speak instead of absorbing what is being communicated, which hinders authentic listening. Listening through the lens of our thoughts is not true listening; it distorts our perception, causing us to only hear our own interpretations.

This superficial form of listening fosters misunderstandings, which can lead to tension and conflict. Our thoughts create a significant barrier to genuine listening.

“The greatest communication issue is that we do not listen to understand; we listen to respond.” - Neelam Tariq

The Nature of Effort

True listening demands attention rather than effort. When you exert effort to listen, you inadvertently hinder your ability to truly hear.

In today’s fast-paced world, we are often conditioned to seek results and attain goals. Our minds are in a constant state of striving, preoccupied with becoming something or achieving a particular outcome. This relentless pursuit leads to a distracted and anxious mind.

Our thoughts frequently spiral into chaos, leaving little room for stillness or the capacity to hear our internal struggles and pain. Instead of being present, we become trapped in a cycle of overthinking and comparison, which stifles our ability to listen. Why is that? Because we are continuously projecting ourselves into nonexistent past or future scenarios.

As a result, our attempts, comparisons, and judgments become obstacles to real listening. The true essence of listening exists in the present moment, free from the need for outcomes. Listening is a complete act in itself, bringing with it a sense of liberation.

Accumulation and Knowledge

Another reason we struggle with true listening is the lack of mental freedom; our accumulated knowledge and the urge to gather more impede our ability to listen.

When we operate from a place of accumulated information, it becomes challenging to engage fully because we confine ourselves within the limits of “I know.” This restricts our openness and attentiveness. To listen effectively, one must cultivate a quiet mind that is free from the burdens of acquisition. While we often collect words as knowledge, we frequently fail to grasp their deeper significance.

Words can confuse, as they serve primarily for external communication. True wisdom lies in recognizing that the word is not the essence of the thing itself. Genuine connection occurs when we listen without preconceived notions or the desire to gather more information. In such direct engagement, we can discern the truth in what is being communicated without unnecessary debate or misinterpretation.

Freedom in Listening

When we listen with full attention, care, and affection, we experience a liberating sense of freedom.

Through authentic listening, we become attuned to truth, resulting in a transformation that occurs organically, without force. Change arises when we discern falsehood from truth, a realization not constructed by the mind.

If we listen intently to everything around us, we may discover that the more we listen, the deeper the silence becomes—a silence untouched by noise. This silence allows us to hear beyond mere words. To perceive the silence that exists between words requires a specific state of mind—one that is calm, present, and attentive. It is only in this mental state that we can truly listen, allowing us to distinguish falsehood from truth.

In this journey called life, each of us has unique insights to offer. What may seem ordinary to one could inspire and empower another. I am eager to accompany you on your path, sharing wisdom and insights, and I am always listening.

~ River