Listening Ears and Thinking Caps

Life was so much simpler when I got the daily reminder to use my listening ears and thinking cap. When the teacher asked us to put them on, I would pull the imaginary ears and cap out of my desk and tie them onto my head. I'm sure this looked rather odd to the children sitting around me, but I took this job very seriously - almost as seriously as locking my lips and throwing away the key. Wouldn't the world be a wonderful place if we still did this as adults?

I know without a doubt that just the act of stopping to put on my ears and cap made me a better listener and a more thoughtful person. I also remember swallowing many unneeded words just by throwing away the key. I know for a fact some of those words where really hurtful because they left a bitter taste on my tongue. But better to be bitter there than burning someone else with my acid.

I don't advocate refraining from all strong words, as some are very important to share for growth and out of love. But, they should only be shared after good use of a thinking cap. I'd also check the other person to ensure they are wearing their listening ears before trying to converse with them.

There are a few amazing people I've met who wear their ears so consistently that the ears actually become attached and can never be removed again! These people are rare and very special. Most of the time these are the ones who have mind melded with their thinking cap as well. I aspire to be one of these people. Until I am there, I've learned that the best plan for me is to keep the key to my mouth lock permanently lost.

By the way my listening ears are Vulcan. In case you were wondering.