Do you think the tree makes a sound?

Try this experiment (you’ll need a family member or friend for this). Go to a crowded public place like a mall; make sure the area is noisy. “Lose” each other (choose a distance that is not too far). One of you call out either your name or whatever you’re used to being called to see if you can actually hear among the noise your name being called. This is an experiment in selective hearing that we all have because it is a protection from the overload that’s possible if we focus on all the sounds around us.

The selective hearing can also be detrimental, however, when we choose to not hear something being said in class, at work, or by family members because it appears to be the same background noise as that you find in the mall.

The same goes for what we choose to see. I have always seen cars that are similar to what I’m driving or a member of my family is driving. I guess that’s selective sighting. And of course we’ve all experienced being on autopilot when going to work or routine places, or when doing things by rote.

The combination of these selective actions increases the opportunity for miscommunication and the resulting arguments, break-ups, mishaps, etc. We need to open our eyes and ears to be aware when it is necessary.