As a child and even as an adult I have been a pretty quiet individual. I was not a chatterbox during any stage of my life. In school, I was not inclined to ask questions, as I usually felt that if I didn't understand something that there were others in the same boat and I would just wait for them to make inquiries. It usually always worked.
I was always quiet by nature until I started to teach. I recall individuals who knew me as a child marvelling at the fact that I was a teacher. They always considered me as very quiet and too shy. And they were right. As I grew older, I slowly became more of a talker, in certain locales. If in a group of friends or under the influence of one drink too many I found that I could be quite a yacker. In groups of strangers, I am usually more of a listener than a talker. In fact, when I am in a new social group my wife will often trace the letter T on my leg to tell me that I should Talk.
As I entered the realm of senior citizenship I have found that I am much more likely to strike up a conversation. It will last only as long as the topic is interesting and not just idle chatter. I have found lately that I am much more inclined to need to talk than ever. In our condo, I am usually the person in the elevator who will initiate conversation. On my 20 floor descent, you can actually have quite an interesting visit.
In my family, my Mother was very quiet and reserved and my Dad was basically quiet as well. But my father was a very social being. I often tell the story of walking the three blocks to church each Sunday and it would take my Dad at least half an hour. He would stop and chat or visit with everyone he saw on the street or in their yard. Sometimes he was even late for mass because he had been caught up in a chat.
Today, I find that conversation has become a lost art for many. It is so enjoyable when you can brighten your day with a chat or talk especially with a friend or acquaintance. I think it is a great habit to hone!
I know you might find it hard to believe but I’m not much of a talker. (Except with your bride). I have a suggestion for a future post: conversation starters. Or How to Hone Your Conversation Skills.
ReplyDeleteAre you suggesting after I have identified my 80 life lessons that I write 80 more real "how to" lessons? I don't think the world could handle any more of my ramblings!
DeleteYou might not be much of a talker, but one of the most valuable lessons you taught me as a leader (and there were many!) was that a daily 'check in' with the people around you makes all the difference in the world. Having you stop by my office every day allowed me to reflect on the why, what and how of my professional activities. It is the quality of the chats that is important. Thanks for the lesson!
ReplyDeleteThanks for your complement. You were one of my star pupils. And still are!
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