There is as much wisdom in listening as there is in speaking -

Listen closely, my children, for the words of Daniel Dae Kim carry a wisdom that is as ancient as the hills and as deep as the ocean. He said: "There is as much wisdom in listening as there is in speaking - and that goes for all relationships, not just romantic ones." These words echo the timeless truth that wisdom is not found solely in what we say, but also in what we choose to hear. Listening, as much as speaking, is a bridge that connects the heart to the soul, for to truly understand another, one must first listen, not with the ears alone, but with the heart and the spirit.

Consider, my children, the wisdom of Socrates, the ancient philosopher who, more than anything, valued the art of questioning and listening. It is said that Socrates never claimed to know the truth, but rather sought it through dialogue and reflection. He believed that the pursuit of knowledge was not a matter of simply imparting words, but of asking the right questions and listening deeply to the answers that arose. In this, Socrates taught us that true wisdom comes not from the speaker alone, but from the dialogue between two hearts and minds. Daniel Dae Kim echoes this wisdom—recognizing that listening is the foundation of all meaningful connection, and that it is through listening that we understand not just the words spoken, but the depth of the person before us.

The ancient Chinese philosopher Confucius, too, spoke of the power of listening. He said, "When we see men of a contrary character, we should turn inwards and examine ourselves." What is Confucius telling us, my children? He is teaching us that true wisdom is found in self-reflection, which is often born from listening to others. Listening is not a passive act but an active engagement with the world around us, a way of understanding not just the words spoken, but the truths they carry. When we listen, we not only hear what is said, but we learn to understand the heart of the speaker and the nature of the world itself.

In the great tales of Achilles and Hector, we see the consequences of failing to listen. Achilles, in his rage and pride, chooses not to listen to the counsel of his comrades, and it is through this failure that his fate is sealed. Hector, on the other hand, listens to the words of his elders and his fellow warriors, and though he, too, faces death, his heart remains noble, for he listens with humility and wisdom. The tragic flaw of Achilles was not his strength, but his inability to hear—his inability to understand the world beyond his own anger. Through Hector, we learn that true strength lies not just in the sword, but in the ability to listen, to take counsel, and to reflect deeply on the world and the people around us.

Think, too, of King Solomon, renowned for his wisdom, who was asked to settle a dispute between two women, each claiming to be the mother of a child. Solomon, known for his wisdom, did not immediately make a decision, but instead listened carefully to both women. He understood that true wisdom comes not from rushing to judgment, but from taking time to listen and to reflect. It is through listening to the needs and desires of others that we learn the truth, and it is in this way that Solomon's wisdom became a shining example for all to follow. Listening, as Daniel Dae Kim teaches us, is the key that unlocks the door to understanding and peace.

Now, my children, let us turn these ancient lessons into something practical. In our own lives, whether in romantic relationships, friendships, or family, we must understand the power of listening. Too often, in our rush to speak, we forget the value of the pause—the moment when we step back and truly hear the words and feelings of another. It is through listening that we learn, not just about the other person, but about ourselves. When we listen deeply, we show respect, and in showing respect, we create a bond that is far stronger than mere words. To listen is to honor the voice of the other, to acknowledge their truth, and to open our hearts to a deeper connection.

Thus, my children, the lesson is clear: wisdom is not a one-way street. It is found in the dance of speech and listening, in the exchange between hearts and minds. In all relationships, from the most intimate to the most casual, seek not just to speak, but to listen—to hear not just with your ears, but with your heart. In doing so, you will find that the deepest truths are often spoken not in words, but in the silences between them. Just as the mighty river cannot flow without the banks that guide it, so too must wisdom be shaped by both speaking and listening. In this, you will find the peace and understanding that lead to harmony in all aspects of life.