We all share them. We all hear them. We all have at least one.
Every time a person breathes they are living out a story. Today, my story included, the barista who poured my green tea, the woman sitting twenty-feet away from me eagerly typing with a contemplative look on her face as to whether she should hit backspace or not, the man who needs help walking out the door since his legs are not strong enough to do it on his own, and the random woman at Goodwill who helped me pick out a belt. Not only were they part of my story, they each have their own stories to share. Their thoughts, emotions, desires, and experiences can and should be put into words to share with other humans.
God created humans to be in relationship and community with one another. To share in those experiences I previously mentioned. He also created us with a voice to share our stories. A voice can help us learn, love, grieve, and grow. When creating humans, God did not stop with a voice. He also gave us ears. Not one, but two. He may have done this to balance out our face (it would look kind of funny if we only had one ear), but more than that I think He did this so we are reminded that listening often takes more effort or is more important than talking.
I love how bluntly James addresses the matter in James 1:19-21. We are to be quick to listen and slow to speak. One reason this could be is to hear the stories of the people around us. The more I spend time with people and the more coffee dates I go on with my sisters, the more I realize how one of the best ways I can love someone is by listening to them. Hearing their joys, their pains, and their life is what I am able to do.
Sharing stories is needed, yet the only way to do this is to have someone to listen to them. Listening is vital in any relationship you have, whether you just met the person or have known them your whole life.
