A Message from NAAEE's Executive Director Judy Braus, December 2022

When you talk, you are only repeating what you already know. But if you listen, you may learn something new. —Dalai Lama

There’s also a gift we can all give during the holidays and throughout the year that doesn’t cost anything. And that’s the gift of listening—to our friends, family, neighbors, colleagues, and partners—and to those who might not agree with us or share our world view. One thing we have in common is that we’re all eager to be heard and understood.

Listening can make someone feel valued, respected, and supported, and it can help achieve greater understanding. As a community of environmental educators, advocates, scholars, students, and more, it’s in our nature to seek understanding. Listening is fundamental to who we are and also so important as we work to build a more just, equitable, and inclusive movement.

Today, there are so many wonderful resources to help us all build our empathetic listening skills, including this TED Talk from several years ago about how to have better conversations that can enrich our time with family, colleagues, and friends during the holiday season and in the year ahead. It’s inspired me to think about how I can listen actively and be more fully present in both personal and professional spheres.

At NAAEE, our role is to listen and respond in kind to the needs and aspirations of our field. We are continually inspired by you, our amazing community of EE practitioners, supporters, board members, advisory council members, staff, Affiliates, and partners—and are deeply grateful for the energy and innovation you bring to your work every day.