Words are Windows (Or They’re Walls)

Listening to Marshal Rosenberg’s talks always makes me emotional. I still am unable to imagine what might have gone on in his life when he was creating this new language of life: Non-violent communication.

This poem by Ruth Bebermeyer, Marshal Rosenberg’s partner, touched me to the core, resonating the feelings of a person who is longing to be heard. What might be going on with a person who wants to confirm that he/ she is really understood, what was shared is accepted in the right spirit. It is also a stark reminder of when I have been harsh, hurtful and judgemental with someone I deeply care about. How many times have I felt unheard and how many times have I not heard, understood the feelings of the other?

Listening helps me see though the words of the other, a peak into their journey, their feeling and needs. And it is an opportunity for me to be empathic, enable self-reflection, and also practice the art of humble inquiry.

I feel so sentenced by your words; I feel so judged and sent away

Before I go I got to know; Is that what you mean to say?

Before I rise to my defense, Before I speak in hurt or fear,

Before I build that wall of words, tell me, did I really hear?

Words are windows, or they’re walls,

They sentence us or set us free.

When I speak and when I hear, Let the love light shine through me.

There are things I need to say, Things that mean so much to me,

If my words don’t make me clear, Will you help me to be free?

If I seemed to put you down, If you felt I didn’t care,

Try to listen through my words To the feelings that we share.

Words are windows, or they’re walls,

They sentence us or set us free.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mkgoo1OKtqQ