"The Power of Listening" by Elena Goodrow

Reflecting on my life with CF, I think about all the people that took the time to listen to what I have to say. Whether it was a doctor, a pharmacist, a family member, or a friend- the power of listening goes so much further than one conversation.

I was raised by an extroverted mother who always taught me to speak my mind, to exude confidence, and it be vulnerable. I’m proud to say that I listened when she taught me those attributes. I’ve been called bossy, too confident, too outspoken, too loud, and so much more. When I hear these things, I see it as the greatest compliment… even if that’s not how it was intended.

When to comes to having CF, I’ve never been quiet about it. I talked about CF to anyone who would listen. I spoke at events and fundraisers, ready to educate the world on what CF is and how they can help those living with it. I yearned for people to listen to me. A lot of adults didn’t take me seriously. They saw a 7 year old wearing a princess dress and for some reason that meant they didn’t take me seriously- even though I had very serious things to say. I had a hard time with humor and sarcasm at that age. All I ever begged for was for people to treat me like they would treat an adult and to listen to me.

I’m a 22 year old woman now, people still don’t take me seriously. Unfortunately, I don’t think they ever will. That’s why I choose to surround myself with people who listen, ask questions, and stand by my side through thick and thin. It’s why I strive to listen to others. One of the biggest reasons I chose to go to nursing school is because I want to be someone who listens. When I have a 7 year old girl that comes in wearing a princess dress, every word that comes out of her mouth will be the most important thing I have ever heard. The power of listening to others cannot be undermined. It’s what brings us together and what makes us stronger.