Seek to Understand More than Be Understood

Here's what I consider to be a fundamental key to life: Seek to understand more than be understood.

How do we do this? By practicing empathy. By listening carefully to what someone is saying. Trying to see life as they see it. Trying to walk in their shoes. Considering how others' life experiences - including their wounding - have shaped their opinions and ideologies.

Once we understand the plights of others, we're able to hurt as they hurt. Weep as they weep. Mourn as they mourn (Romans 12:15).

Understanding also means not offering easy, uninvolved solutions. Or giving simple, shallow answers.

Understanding means listening. Being there. Caring. When done, your love for others increases.

And their love increases for you, too.