Have you ever been with someone and you are sharing from a place of vulnerability and they seem distracted? How do you feel? What decision do you make about the person you are with? You decide that they are not present and probably begin to shut down on some level. I would venture to say that some judgment comes in that creates separation with you and this other person.
Let’s talk about you. How are you at being present with others? Do you find yourself thinking about what you need to do next, the deadlines that are coming up or who you just saw walk in the door? Guess what? You have now done to someone else what made you feel uncomfortable and unheard.
The art of being present requires that you are completely with another person. Your intention is to see them and hear what they are saying. Your intention is to give them your attention so fully that they feel safe. I had the opportunity to be around His Holiness the Dalai Lama for several days and this man has completely mastered the art of being present with others and with himself. He listens intently and responds from a place of complete authenticity. This way of being is so inspiring.
Give to others what you want to receive; being heard, being seen, feeling safe.
photo credit: Jan Michael Ihl via photopin cc
