Rosh Hashanah Message: Diana Cole

For this New Year, I want to make obtainable changes in myself. I want to be a better wife, mother, friend, sister, daughter, and employee. There are a lot of ways I can obtain this goal, but the main way is by listening. Not only hearing what a person says but, listening to their heart, words, and the meaning behind it. I want to really dive into the hidden meaning. In this day and age listening is a true art.

Not only do you have to figure out the cues they are saying by actual spoken word but also by written word. Sometimes both could misconstrue to mean something else. It is very difficult to “listen” to communicate texting or by email. You can easily misread a person’s tone, and it is easy to misread the true meaning. Things can be taken out of context and this can lead to conflicts.

I am going to obtain my goal by listening before speaking, making eye contact (if in person), and watching their body movements. Both in the written and verbal word, I really need to ask questions to see if I really understand the thought my husband, children, friend, brother, father, and employer are trying to convey. I think I need to focus more on in-person or verbal contact to be successful in becoming a better listener. I am hoping by 5785 I can be a better listener. Shanah tovah.

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Diana Cole is the Community Coordinator for the Atlanta Jewish Times.