Unfortunately, all of us have a problem with hearing. Some may have physical limitations, but most of us hear what we want.
There is a reason James says:
19 My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry,
Why? When we start to really listen to others and slow to speak, then we are thinking about what is being said. But all of us want to express our opinions to badly that we hear only part of what is actually being said and we start talking before we have a real chance to understand which often leads us to being angry.
Right now there is a war going on in the US. It is this side versus that side. There may not be any or a very small amount of casualties, but the effect is the same. Everyone one is talking, but no one is hearing/listening.
Of course we tell ourselves and others that we heard every word that was said, but the reality is we do not. When something is being said and it strikes a nerve, the rest of what is said it tuned out.
Have you ever been in a verbal fight with someone because they did not hear everything you had to say and you did not hear everything they had to say. Each of you heard what you wanted to hear and the rest did not matter.
If we would just learn to slow down and actually listen, then think, then speak, how much better would the world be? Would the politicians start to get things done versus blaming each others? Would the conservatives and liberals start to appreciate each other and recognize them for who they are without all the negative energy/attitudes.
We are told over and over again in the Bible to listen or hear first, then respond. Listening means not thinking about your response as the person is talking, but actually taking in what they are saying and processing it.
I pray that you will start to really listen. I think you will be amazed how things will change.