Is writing a book merely another form of talking, or also of listening? I agree with Carmen Acevedo Butcher that “the world has so many talkers and very few listeners,” so why should I add my voice to the cacophony already out there? Maybe I have something extra special to say, but a more compelling reason is to amplify voices that might not otherwise be heard. Butcher connects listening with unconditional love, on the Learning How to See podcast. She notes the irony of saying this on a podcast, but continues, “I really think love listens. That's it. That's my whole philosophy. I pray to listen better” (McLaren and Butcher 2026, at 35:02). I’m reminded of James 1:19 in the Bible: “Be slow to speak, quick to listen, and slow to become angry.” I’m also reminded of the book I Never Thought of It That Way, in which author Mónica Guzmán highlights the importance of curiosity for reaching out across divides. Her Braver Way podcast touches on topics related to my dissertation, e.g. the July 3 episode this year. 
Speaking of curiosity, I'm curious to hear reactions to these thoughts.