In the place where we talk about manners, tender words, patience, kindness, listening, and understanding—in the place where we ponder negotiation methods—in the place we preach about how we must conduct ourselves in order to gain trust—in the place where words matter, there is a reserved space which decides how much value the world of words holds.
Listening and understanding are special. They aren’t about style; they are actions. Listening isn’t something one can “say kindly”, nor is understanding. As with any action, our words only carry what clout is bestowed by what has already been done.