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Practicing Active Listening

This is a simple activity. Below, you’ll find an embedded video of a song: “Will The Circle Be Unbroken?” as performed by Richie Havens. Your task is to listen to the song deeply and truly. This song was a key protest song during the Civil Rights movement of the 1940s-1970s and will likely still resonate with you today - particularly when performed by an African-American artist.

Clear your mind and devote your attention to this moment. Pay attention to everything about Havens and his performance. The words matter, the music matters, the rhythm matters - each element can give you a deeper understanding of him and his experience as a human.

Now click “Play” on the song.

———

 

I was standing by my window
On a cold and cloudy day
When I saw the hearse a comin’
Just to take my mother away.

So I told the undertaker:
"Undertaker - please drive slow
For this body you are hauling
Yes, I hate to see her go."

Will the circle be unbroken?
By and by, Lord, by and by.
There is a better home awaitin’
in the sky - Lord, in the sky.

Well I followed close behind her
Thought I would hold up and be brave
And I could not hide my sorrow
When they laid her in the grave.

Will the circle be unbroken?
By and by, Lord, by and by.
There is a better home awaitin’
in the sky - Lord, in the sky.

One by one the seats were emptied
By one by one they went away
Now my family they are parted
Will we see each other someday?

Will the circle be unbroken?
By and by, Lord, by and by.
There is a better home awaitin’
in the sky - Lord, in the sky.

- in the sky - Lord, in the sky.

- in the sky - Lord, in the sky.

Thinking About What You Heard

These questions might help you process your thoughts about the performance:

  • What new ideas and understanding did you draw from listening to the song?

  • What bigger issues of society did the song make you think about?

  • How did your listening experience deepen your understanding of Havens and his experience as an American?

  • How does this listening experience make you want to act differently in your world?

Active listening skills are something you can build and grow as you move in your world. This resource guide explores some of the deep benefits of listening, as well as some modes for listening to others better.