Sensitivity is a delicate appreciation of others’ ideas, attitudes, feelings and natures. I practice it by listening carefully, watching facial expressions and understanding subtle signs. The opposite is insensitivity.§
Comparing the actions of one who is sensitive to one who is insensitive§ |
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Situation§ |
Sensitivity§ |
Insensitivity§ |
As a long-time friend confides her marriage difficulties, you…§ |
listen carefully to understand her experience in full.§ |
change the subject, feeling you have enough problems and don’t need hers.§ |
At a meditation retreat everyone is asked to share insights. As each one speaks, you…§ |
watch facial expressions and body language as well as the words being spoken.§ |
tune out, figuring this is a time to think about what you are going to say, not to listen to them.§ |
When your best friend asks for personal insight into an issue, you…§ |
listen with your heart, holding back any judgment.§ |
jump in and question her actions and motives, unaware of her fragility.§ |
Gurudeva explained: “As we progress along the path, we become more and more and more sensitive. This sensitivity is a wonderful thing. It’s like graduating from being an old battery-set radio of the 1920s and ’30s to a sophisticated, solid-state television. This sensitivity that you will begin to recognize is so refined and yet so strong.”§
“Being detached does not mean running away from life or being insensitive. It makes us extremely sensitive. When we have the ability to let go, we are warmer, more friendly, more wholesome, more human and closer to our family and friends.”§
ASSIGNMENT: During these two weeks, in any important discussion, be sure you are aware of and sensitive to the attitudes and emotions of those around you.§
Date you began this assignment ____________________§
MY THOUGHTS ON THE BENEFITS OF SENSITIVITY: 
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