I'm a pretty quiet person.
I used to be extremely shy, and still can be at times, but not terribly.
I call myself an extroverted introvert.
I don't mind sitting by myself.
I don't always have to be talking to someone.
I don't feel the need to surround myself with handfuls of people, or even just one handful.
But don't ignore me when I make an effort to actually step outside of my comfort zone in getting to know you, after you approached me. When I attempt to make conversation, respond! Engage!
Don't just stand there.
Don't turn your back.
Don't say hi and then walk away, after being asked an investigative question.
Don't constantly look behind me or to the side.
Don't just smile and nod.
Don't simply hear me... listen.
My word.
Circumstances matter in this issue, sure.
I mean, I understand we're busy people, for example.
But when you're obviously just milling around because you don't have class, work, etc., and you're not talking with anyone or let others know that you're about to go do something or meet someone... don't assume that you will have no interaction with others. And when that happens, at least be cordial towards the other person. I really wouldn't think that's too much to hope for... I guess in this day and age, especially in regards to my generation, it is.
I apologize. My mistake.
Dang.
I'm done.
1 comment:
This hits home with me, because I'm sure I do this from time to time. So few people really want to talk in a meaningful way that when it is staring us in the face, it's kind of surprising and we don't know immediately how to respond.
Don't give up on someone who was unresponsive at first. At least give him/her a couple of tries to understand what you're trying to accomplish.
And thanks for your kind words after chapel Tuesday. It was a blessing to hear from you and others that I was saying things they needed to hear. I needed them, too.
Enjoy the semester. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
Dr. Fincher
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