The parents are not listening to the words as closely as they used to. They are listening more closely to how whatever is being said — the tone, the delivery, the speed — and seeing the body language. In their old age, they are hearing the emotions and seeing the state of the person talking. This guides their response.
For me though, this changes everything. Words i say mean little and the sentiment behind them, more. The way they are said — way, waayyymore.
What does this translate into?
I may say the prettiest of words with a snarl that i may not know of. The response or reaction will be to the snarl as that will be heard clearest. The words, not so much.
When i speak now, i am training myself to feel more and listen to myself more closely. Through them, i am hearing the essence of what i am saying.
appam stew n prawns patiyo 