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Trust_Reality

(2,275 posts)
4. There is no better way to show respect than to listen.
Sun Dec 21, 2025, 01:02 PM
Dec 21

Verify that you heard and understand what they are saying, not so much by saying "I hear you" but by telling them what you heard and clarifying that is accurate. "You're saying (what you understood them to be saying)."

Ask for their ideas. It is quite possible some of them have given much thought on how to solve their problems or what would help. If a farmer spends hours on a tractor seat, he/she will have had many hours to ponder his dilemmas. He may have some creative or stunningly good ideas.

Rural social life often focuses around a local church. I consider that a challenge, but it is what it is. One thing to note: I doubt they appreciate use of the word fuck. That word seems to be primarily for politicians and thugs.

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