One day, during a reception, he decided to try an experiment. To each person who came down the line and shook his hand, he murmured, "I murdered my grandmother this morning." The guests responded with phrases like, "Marvelous! Keep up the good work. We are proud of you. God bless you, sir."

It was not until the end of the line, while greeting the ambassador from Bolivia, that his words were actually heard. Not quite knowing what to say, the ambassador leaned over and whispered, "I’m sure she had it coming."

Are we like the people above?

May I encourage you today to put down the newspaper, turn off the television set, stay away a while from your computers and take the time and effort to listen to those around you. It will show that you care, and who knows, you might even learn something in the process!

Author: Benjamin Franklin