STATE TIMES NEWS
JAMMU: “Listening is an art that requires attention over talent, Spirit over ego and others over self”. With this insightful quote Arushi Babbar from Grade IXC conducted the morning assembly alongwith her classmates on the topic “The Art of Listening” at JK Public School Kunjwani.
Further reflections on the topic came from Aarav, while he stated, “In today’s world, many people listen only to respond quickly, not to truly know what the other person is saying. ‘Listening to understand, not to reply’ means giving your full attention to the speaker, focusing on her/his words, emotions and point of view rather than thinking about what you are going to say next”.
“When we listen to understand, we become more empathetic, patient and respectful. This kind of listening builds deeper connections and avoids misunderstandings. It helps in resolving conflicts peacefully and shows the other person that their thoughts matter”, he added.
More substance was added to the transaction when Aarav pitched in by saying, “Don’t listen just to reply – listen to understand, it builds trust and real connection. When we truly listen without interrupting ort judging; we make others feel seen, heard and respected. This is the real power of understanding”.
Rhythm recited a poignant poem titled “Let Silence Speak”:
Seek not the silence
merely to reply-
let each word find you,
not just pass by.
The soul’s voice whispers,
tender, profound-
it needs no echo,
no applause, no sound.
Hold space with grace,
no shield, no sword;
let empathy bloom
beyond each word.
To understand
is not to outshine-
but to open the door
and let truth align.
Under the segment Quotations, Pranav quoted Dalai Lama, “When you talk you are only repeating what you already know. But if you listen, you may learn something new”. Darasdeep referred to St. Francis of Assisi, “Seek first to understand, then to be understood”.
Principal JKPS Kunjwani Rajesh Rathore applauded the presenters of the morning assembly for enlightening the audience and stated, “When we listen to understand, not to reply, we shift from reacting to reflecting. We begin to appreciate perspectives, to honour emotions, and to nurture relationships built on empathy and trust”.
“Remember: ears hear, but hearts listen. In a world full of cacophony and hurried opinions, Mindful listening is the ultimate refuge. Whether you’re in your classrooms, at home, or among friends-practice the art of listening deeply. It is not only an act of respect, but also the first step towards true wisdom”, he concluded.