Think about what it felt like when someone you know sat and really listened to you.  What did it feel like to be heard and fully acknowledged?

Today, on Day 2 of #24daysofgiving, give someone your full attention. Take the time to sit with a co-worker or loved one who needs to talk. The holidays can be a challenging time, and someone you know may be struggling with anxiety, depression or grief. Turn the phone off, sit face-to-face and simply listen.

Resist the temptation to give advice or interject your own story of something similar that may have happened to you. Pay attention, honor their feelings, suspend judgment and use reflective listening techniques to the best of your ability.

Offer the space for the other person’s heart and mind to rest and be healed, as you would want someone else to do for you.

How did it go? Feel free to share your experience or your creative suggestions. If you’re on Twitter or Instagram, share using the #24daysofgiving hashtag. Let’s spread some love and good cheer!

#24daysofgiving is an Advent experiment in being called to come into being through the practices of love and compassion, while reflecting on the coming of Christ into the world.