Wanting To Be Heard VS. Defending Your Point of View

Namaste!
It's been a while since I've posted. It's good to be back.This was a question that was asked of me and I would like to take the time to answer it here as I think it is an important one.The first question I think you need to ask yourself is the reason you feel the NEED to be heard in the first place. Usually, when someone feels the need to be heard, it's seeking self validation. But, who is the validator? The other person is. And the only person who's opinion should matter is yours. Yes, you are free to listen to others' point of view, but listen without the attachment of hoping they will reciprocate when you voice yours. You are choosing to listen to their POV. You don't have to. They choose to hear yours, great! They don't, great! You know what YOUR truths are and what you feel, think and say. That is all that matters. That is your self validation. That is all that counts. Whether you realize it or not, by expecting to be heard in return, "is"forcing them to hear you.Why care? It makes no difference. Their opinion will always be different than yours.There is no point to prove, EVER. To anyone. You can do the same if you choose. You have free will. Don't "hear" them either. Listen, and then let it go. With no judgments, no opinions, no expectations, no reciprocation. When you find yourself chomping at the bit and now state your reciprocal opinion and be heard, this is the best time to practice silence. Re-center yourself and move to the next moment that you can be still in. What the other person had to say was in the past moment. It is gone. Hope this helps. Remember everything is from love and will return to love. This includes YOU! I love you!
Namaste, Renee