A while ago, a student from Yunlin County attending Kaohsiung Normal University was on her way to a department store when she noticed neon lights hanging from public trees on the side of the road.
Worried that the lights would hinder the growth of the trees, she wrote to the Kaohsiung mayor.
Two weeks later, she received a reply from the city government saying her suggestion would be acted upon, along with a copy of an official statement announcing the removal of the lights.
I must give a thumbs up to the student for thinking about the environment, and compliment the city government for its efficiency and earnest response.
By listening to young people’s concerns, then finding solutions, policymakers foster effective communication with constituents, crucial for encouraging social improvements. Listening to people is the most important skill.
In Taiwanese culture, adults are fond of the adage “children should be seen and not heard.”
However, this discourages children from expressing their thoughts. If adults prevent children from voicing their opinions, we cannot expect these children to have the courage to speak up in the future. Without listening, communication between parents and children becomes impossible.
At school, if teachers can spend more time listening to students’ needs and understanding their feelings, then conflict, arguments and tragedy can be avoided.
When students are called on by teachers to answer questions in a classroom, students usually respond in different ways, some providing articulate answers, elucidating their ideas in a coherent manner, some fall into a panic and fumble over their answers, while others forget what the answer should be altogether.
As a teacher, I usually commend the performance of the former and make sure that I show patience and understanding for the latter two.
This is a win-win situation for students and teachers. Students, while feeling accepted and acknowledged, can learn happily, while teachers can concentrate on teaching.
At work, if bosses can learn to be good listeners by meeting employees’ needs and coming up with solutions, there would be a supportive, relaxed and friendly environment in the company. This would encourage employees to go the extra mile for the company.
Policymakers also need to be good listeners to hear public concerns. Only when a leader demonstrates the will to listen, to shoulder responsibility and tackle problems can they continue to win support from the public.
Hsiao Su-chen
Tainan
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