Not statements, stories, or advice

but questions. I have found as I grow in my friendship with people and meet new people that I need to remember to ask questions. It is not all about me, my kids, or my husband. Friendship is about listening to others.

I was reminded of this by a single friend. She said that seeing all of her friends pregnant and with babies sometimes makes her sad. I can understand this. When she finds the right guy she will be a wonderful wife and mother. I don't think I have always been conscious of her life in our conversations. When I have nothing to say, I immediately jump to a story about my life or what my kids are doing. When instead, I could be asking a question. It could be simple "what are you doing? what are you preaching on this week?" Yes, my kids will come up in the conversation because they are a part of my life and I am a stay at home mom, but not everyone can relate. We need to ask questions and then listen.

As I posted before about giving advice to pregnant people, I think God is teaching me that I need to ask questions. I need to become a better listener in my relationships. That includes God, my husband, my kids, and my friends. Listening is tough...