We listen, we don’t judge
LISTENING without judgement fosters trust, understanding, and open communication. When we listen with empathy, we create a safe space for others to share their thoughts and feelings without fear of criticism or rejection. Judging prematurely can shut down meaningful dialogue, perpetuate misunderstandings, and damage relationships.
“By withholding judgment, we demonstrate respect and compassion, which encourages deeper connections and helps resolve conflicts more effectively,” says mental health counsellor Angella Dacres. “This approach also allows us to gain new perspectives and learn from others, enriching our own emotional intelligence and fostering mutual growth.”
‘We listen. We don’t judge’ is the latest testimony-sharing trend on social media, and people having been revealing secrets to others they’re close to, since the fear of judgement is removed. From couples confessing spicy misdeeds to each other, to Christians offloading sinful acts, people confessing to crimes and coming clean on lies, it’s probably free therapy for the ages.
We’re joining in this week, with people sharing the confessions they’d normally be judged on.
CHRISTIAN EDITION
John-Pierre, 40:
My wife wasn’t my first choice. I was in love with this other girl, but she wouldn’t give up her worldian ways and come into my church, so I chose my wife instead, because I was being pressured by the elders. I prayed many nights for God to intervene, down to on my wedding day, I prayed He’d send angels to stop it. I still think about the other woman every single day, and watch her life unfold on social media. Oh the thoughts I have! I have to be constantly praying for grace.
Anna, 28:
Most of the people I know have left our church branch because of politics arising from the new pastor the board assigned. He has no charisma at all, and can’t preach to save his life, but I stay because I find him delicious, and obsess over him. I don’t hear a word he says on Sundays and I have ungodly thoughts about him, that I justify by reading Songs of
Solomon.
MARRIAGE EDITION
Samantha, 40:
I initially encouraged my husband to take out a life insurance policy because I was being pestered by an agent who’s a parent at our son’s school, and I told him to do it because he has a dangerous job, and anything could happen. Nowadays, I find myself letting my intrusive thoughts win more often than not, and I’m ashamed to say that sometimes I hope something would happen, because the bills are piling up and I could do a lot with $10 million.
Jo, 26:
I went to the tax office to find out if I could change my name back to my maiden name without getting divorced, because I hate the fact that I took my husband’s last name, and hate the fact that I got married. I miss being single, but my husband would be hurt if I said anything.
Zachary, 33:
I thought that because my wife and myself are decent looking, our kids would be more attractive. They both look like my wife’s father, and sometimes I look at them and understand the phrase about someone having a face only a mother could love. They did not win the genetics lottery, and I blame my wife.
DATING EDITION
Gavin, 31:
The least little thing turns me off, and sometimes I wonder if I’ll be single forever. A girl will be talking to me on a date and I’ll zone out, and wonder how long it’s been since she went to the dentist, or why her make-up looks like she’s wearing a mask.
Jasmine, 23:
I want a sugar daddy and want to be a sugar baby, without the trade off. The money is nice, but I find older men revolting.
