A LISTENING EAR
Many years ago, dad went to the bank to withdraw N150,000 and instead of 3 bundles of 500 Naira notes, the cashier paid him 3 bundles of 1000 Naira notes. My dad went to the car and luckily he discovered the error before driving off. He walked back into the bank.
Many years ago, dad went to the bank to withdraw N150,000 and instead of 3 bundles of 500 Naira notes, the cashier paid him 3 bundles of 1000 Naira notes. My dad went to the car and luckily he discovered the error before driving off. He walked back into the bank.
Upon arrival, the cashier wouldn't even let him speak. "Sir, I'm sorry, once you step out, you can't make a complaint on your transaction." The assumption is always that you were underpaid and the bank is always unwilling to correct the error.
Other customers chimed in and told him that it is bank policy, that he wouldn't be listened to. He insisted on saying his say and the cashier wouldn't have it which made him flare up and asked to see the manager.
The manager, drawn to the scene, came down to see what the matter was and he asked my dad what the issue was. He explained he was paid twice the amount he requested for and has been trying to explain to the cashier whose job would be at stake but she wouldn't listen.
The cashier went on her knees, making apologies for not listening and showing gratitude for the refund. My dad told her to always hear people out first. Everyone in the bank was shocked and the manager took my dad to his office for some courtesy greetings.
The funny thing was he was headed for a meeting. Yet, he was being delayed by someone he was trying to help. What if the money was less, isn't it his right to get the complete sum?
Bank Policy huh?
Bank Policy huh?
It really costs nothing to hear people out. We live in an era where people preempts your speech by assuming what you intend to say. It stifles knowledge and progress. In criminal justice, even an accused is given an opportunity to defend himself.
Everyone deserves an ear. I have observed how Social Media has impacted communication - albeit negatively. People don't read to understand and discuss, they read to argue.
My friend Kuzayet does not understand how people fail at comprehension because we were taught Comprehensive English for 6 years in secondary school. How then is it hard to comprehend what people say so as to give a befitting response?
I really feel that intentionally choosing not to understand people is the same as not giving them a listening ear.
Also, I like to talk about the obsession with phones when we are around people.
Also, I like to talk about the obsession with phones when we are around people.
Life is fickle and the moment we spend with a person or people could literally be the last. I see people expend time and energy to look good, only to hang out or go on dates to press their phones.
Where I get hazy is that the people you are chatting with, when in their presence, you don't talk to them. You bring out your phone to chat with others. Why do we enjoy people only when they are out of sight? Learn to live in the moment.
Chatting on Whatsapp is good but chatting physically with undivided attention with the person at the other side of the table is better. Not everything should be captured on camera, sometimes, let your eyes and soul experience them.
Enjoy the moment you share with people. Humans are social beings and a listening ear is one of the best gifts you could give to anyone. It shows respect. It shows you value them.
There are many instances where this plays out but I would leave you to discuss them in the comment session.
Peace, Love & Spaghetti ✌
Peace, Love & Spaghetti ✌
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