My parents raised my brothers and I on our small, family farm. It seems like every day we learned a lesson or two, usually whether we wanted to or not!
Somewhere along the line I remember hearing “you have two ears and one mouth for a reason”. Well, alright then.
I know most days I could do a better job of listening and until the end of my life I will likely still be working to improve those skills. Listening is both an art and a gift. As parents, leaders, and friends most of us could become better listeners.
To quote a personal mentor of mine, John Maxwell, “People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care”. www.johnmaxwell.com
Why couldn’t I have came up with that one? So pay attention and listen up! You’ll be a better person for doing it.
Farmgirl Sensibilities 
Like your comments – my folks said the same thing. I think I listening is a life long learning experience. Sometimes it’s harder to listen than others, but I try.
I know how you feel. It doesn’t take any effort to hear what someone says, but listening takes more effort. Let’s just say I have personal opportunities for improvement. LOL. Thanks for your comments Brenda!