The Power of Listening: From Apathy to Empathy
Episode Overview
Kevin Carter's photograph as a mirror to personal apathy. The transformative power of active listening in recovery. The importance of seeing beyond labels and headlines. Personal reflections on the journey from addiction to empathy. The continuous effort required to truly engage with others.
Behind every label there's a story and a life that matters
In this episode of 'Next Time I'll Try Knitting', JJ Chance dives deep into the power of truly listening and seeing. Through the lens of Kevin Carter's harrowing photograph of a vulture standing over a starving child during the Sudan War, JJ reflects on his own journey from apathy to empathy.
The episode is a heartfelt exploration of how addiction can cloud our ability to connect with the world around us and how recovery can open our eyes and ears to the stories that matter. Kevin Carter's tragic end and the story of Kong Niyong, the child in the photograph, serve as poignant reminders of the importance of seeing beyond labels and headlines.
JJ candidly shares his struggles with addiction, his detachment from global issues, and how sobriety has transformed his perspective. He emphasises the value of active listening, especially in recovery meetings, and acknowledges that while it's a continuous effort, it's one worth making. By weaving personal anecdotes with broader reflections, JJ encourages us to engage more deeply with the lives around us, reminding us that every story deserves to be heard.
This episode is a powerful reminder that recovery is not just about abstaining from alcohol but also about reconnecting with humanity.