We all need to be concerned about exposing our ears to excessive noise levels, whether from iPods, concerts, machinery or other sources. The tiny structures in our inner ears are extremely delicate and subject to permanent damage from noise. Unfortunately we can't simply "close our ears" in loud environments the way we can close our eyes. That means we need to take responsibility for turning down the volume or, when that's not possible, using earplugs. This goes for our children as well. New Orleans Saints quaterback Drew Brees set a wonderful example at the end of this year's Super Bowl when he was shown holding his young son in his arms after the game, with protective earmuffs covering the boy's ears. He definitely gets the award for Hearing Protection MVP. Check out this article from yesterday's New York Times about the importance of protecting our most precious sense: Want A Better LIstener? Protect Those Ears
