Finding the Right Listener

It has taken me a life time but I am getting closer to finding the right listener. It can't be anyone who has their own agenda...so not a mother. It can't be someone who has an answer for all your questions...so not a sibling. It can't be some who worries about your questions...so not a husband. It can't be someone who thinks you have most of the answers...so not your children. Friends might be a good choice but only friends who don't necessarily always side with you but bring a good ear and an occasional thought provoking comment. It may be that you are your own best listener but the rules have to be followed...

No calling yourself names
Not letting you be right all the time
Giving yourself a little grace

Being your own best listener may require a glass of wine while conversing.