Discussion Post
For this discussion, you are going to practice mindful listening. After reading the assigned chapter in the book along with the required articles, you have learned some about how to listen in a more mindful way.
Think back to the social justice issue you chose in module 1 for your first discussion. (If you prefer to choose a different issue for this discussion, that is acceptable). Find someone who feels differently about this issue than you do. It doesn't have to be an opposing view necessarily, just a different one. Let this person know that you are practicing mindful listening (and explain what that means) and simply ask them to tell you their thoughts on this issue for 3 minutes - it may be a good idea to set a timer. This conversation should be either in person or via video conferencing. You are encouraged to show them you are listening, but not interject. While you are listening, see if you can notice when your mind starts to wander off. If it does, just bring your attention back to the person who is talking to you. Keep doing this each time your mind wanders.
After the three minutes is up, take the time to tell the person what your learned from your conversation. Sometimes the other person will want to participate after seeing you lead by example! If they are agreeable to it, maybe they will even allow you to do the same - explain your own thoughts on the issue, without any need to disprove what they have said. If that is not appropriate here, that is okay.
After doing this exercise, share with us here your own explanation of sociological listening. What does it mean to you? How did it feel to just be focused on listening rather than retorting? If your mind wandered, where did it go (what were you thinking about)? How do you think your day to day life would be different if you engaged in this type of listening more frequently? Referencing your textbook, explain how you will practice sociological listening in your future career or personal life.
The response must include a reference list. Using Times New Roman 12 pnt font, double-space, one-inch margins, and APA style of writing and citations.