Sangha of Auspicious Companions

You Are Not Alone. I Will Listen.

Across Canada’s vast landscapes, Paul Jenkinson — armed with two chairs and a sign declaring, “You are not alone. I will listen” — embarks on his listening tour, inviting strangers to share their stories. A retired social worker from Nova Scotia, Jenkinson draws upon decades of personal trials, like the profound grief of losing a daughter, and offers empathy without judgment. “People are the experts in their own situation,” he believes, providing a calm refuge in a world driven by productivity and success. Often greeted with skepticism, he patiently waits as passersby gather the courage to sit and confide. Through his journey, he encounters a tapestry of human experiences, from students and addicts to volunteers, all interwoven with the “cornucopia of beautiful people” he meets. Themes of vulnerability, connection, and the simple yet profound act of listening resonate deeply, challenging the notion that one must always speak to be heard.

Be The Change

Actively listen today. As you listen to others, try to empathize without jumping to solve or fix the challenge the speaker is going through. Sometimes, the weight on our shoulders can dissolve when we simply feel heard and valued. Offer that to others today.