The challenge is old habits and addictions. These may be a gift if I am strong enough to face up to the challenge. The final gift will be a life free of these challenges.

No rocket science in this question. I can look them in the eye and give them my attention. Saying thank you. Being pro-active in seeing the needs of my students and colleagues. Being positive in my feedback. Treating others as I would like to be treated.

It took me a long time to figure out that when someone is talking to me, be it a colleague at work, one of my students, or my wife, to stop what I am doing, mute the tv, put down the phone and make fundamental eye contact to let them know I am really listening. I am grateful that I have heard them and they feel grateful that I took the time to listen.