But in addition to our own traditions, we listen to the faith of others, including the secularists. We listen first because our times require it. Daily the world grows smaller, leaving understanding the only place where peace can find a home. Those who listen work for peace, a peace built not on religious or political hegemonies, but on mutual awareness and concern. For understanding brings respect, and respect prepares the way for a higher capacity which is love.
Love brings understanding - the two are reciprocal.
So we must listen to understand, while realizing that to the extent that compassion increases we will listen more attentively, for it is impossible to love another without hearing that other. If we are to be true to the wisdom traditions, we must attend to others as deeply and as alertly as we hope that they will attend to us. If we do not quote the other religions on these points it is because their words would be redundant.