I used to read as a kid. I read a lot. Now I rarely do and there is a reason as odd as it is. People in general do not listen although most think they do.

Understanding comes from the ability to listen without judgement and to see something from as many angles as possible as well as the ability to understand your own experiences and emotions.

When you can do this you find people are a wealth of stories, often with stories which are untold or sidestepped or in some instances you will find people who without a little guidance will loose their way.