For those who know me best, it is no surprise that I love horses. I have loved them since childhood and I will love them for life. Ironically, I have spent the last twenty-two years residing near horse farms, a horse park and a horse track. So it was thoughtful when my husband recently gave me a book about horses. The book is full of wonderful information, including many details I did not know. I began thinking.
Reading about horses is very informative and enjoyable. I have no doubt that I will continue to search for more books and information about my favorite animals. Yet there is a difference in learning about horses...and riding or owning horses. One approach teaches us about them. The other teaches us to know them. One offers knowledge. The other offers experience.
In a fast-paced society where we communicate so easily with others, there remains a vast difference in knowing about someone and knowing someone. We may learn more about them through social media, emails or texts. Yet there is no substitute for sitting down with our friends, family, neighbors or co-workers...and hearing their hearts.
One of my present goals is to take time to listen...truly listen...to the hearts of others. I enjoy getting to know people. More than ever, I believe there are many hearts, lives and stories that need to be heard. As this new year unfolds, I pray that lives will be shown compassion, love and kindness by our actions and not words alone. Knowing Someone cares and hears my heart gives me every reason to share the same with others. Dear Lord, help me listen to others as You listen to me.<3~thl
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