HeardOrHerd

When we actually listen to others, to the point that they are certain they are being heard, we convey to them their value as individuals.

When we don't listen (or worse, do all the talking), we make others feel de-valued.  When anyone feels de-valued (us included), they feel frustrated, disrespected, powerless, discounted, invisible.  It's as if they're part of "the herd," lost in a mass of equally de-valued others.  

Heard = valued.  
Unheard = herd relegation.

There is tremendous benefit in being a powerful listener (and it doesn't cost us a darned thing).  And, it's okay to start now...