Today is election day in the United States. RecentlyI have heard myself repeatedly share with students and friends that it is important to remember that what we need is the balance created by opposites. To walk without falling, I must distribute my weight evenly between my right and left legs. To create another human being, male & female elements are required. I could go on and on but instead, I will say just this:

May we create balance & harmony

in our state and national governments.

May we remember that it isn't necessary

that we all agree

all of the time.

It is necessary that we seek

to listen and understand one another

in order to

create the highest good of all.

God Bless America.

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I am not always the best listener. Even as I quickly approach my 75th birthday, I find myself now and then more focused on what I want to say than on what another person is saying. Intellectually, I know that listening is more important than planning my response. Listening allows my brain to process another's viewpoint with respect for both of us. It is obviously more respectful to the speaker because it confirms that I am present in that moment and hearing what they are saying. This is even more beneficial when I ask questions about what they think or feel before "taking my turn."  The next respectful choice is to say something like, "Let me think about that a moment." This gives me time to organize my thoughts and be sure I am clear and ready emotionally as well. If I am experiencing intense emotions, it may be wise to breathe through some of that intensity in order to create an atmosphere where the listener wants to hear me. Once I feel ready to speak, I monitor the...