“Hearing people’s stories is a great way to get outside of yourself.”

A thought by John C. Maxwell (2015-10-06) from his book, Intentional Living: Choosing a Life That Matters (p. 121). Center Street. Kindle Edition. (Click on the title of the book to go to Amazon.com to buy the book.)

John shares that “Fred Rogers, of Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood, kept this quote in his wallet: ‘There isn’t anyone you couldn’t learn to love once you’ve heard their story.’”  That is such a good thought.

Understanding is a very important word and a great way it is found is by asking people to tell their story.  That way you find out why people do what they do and why they do things the way they do.  It also shows how you can help them.  It is also of great help to us personally.   

John says, “It’s hard to remain self-centered when your focus is on others. Hearing people’s stories is a great way to get outside of yourself. Not only will their stories inspire you to help them, but they will also show you ways you can help them.”

John says, “Do you know the stories of the people in your life? Do you know where they’ve come from? Are you acquainted with their struggles, their defining moments? Do you know about their hopes and dreams? Have you asked what they aspire to, and what motivates them?”

Have you done that with your family, your wife, your kids, your dad, your mom?  Or is your focus totally on yourself?

If you are finding your focus is becoming more self-centered then why not spend some time with your wife or your son or daughter or a friend or even an enemy and ask them to tell you their story.  It will make a big difference for them.  And they might even ask you to tell your story.

So who will it be?