Listening and hearing are not the same thing. I am thankful for the person in my life who listens to me. Often I am talking aloud, sorting through my feelings. But a truly gifted listener, can detect even in silence. Listening is not only auditory. I am thankful for the people in my life who hear me, before I even know myself. The people who detect my feelings and anticipate me. Intimacy is that way. When you know someone, their true self can be revealed with no words.