This paper presents a class activity which aims to help students prepare both for the intellectual and the interpersonal work. On the first day of class, students are asked to read and reflect upon "Listening to Understand." Subsequently, they are then asked to discuss their responses in a small group and then later on in a large group discussion, and at the end students sign a form stating their intentions to abide by the expectations set forth in "Listening to Understand." This simple exercise helps students treat each other with respect--especially when the topics are controversial. And it helps students begin to understand the intellectual tasks required of them.