You know how it is when you sit in a waiting room at a doctor’s office? Everybody just keeps to their own little space. Sometimes there is a nod of the head, or handing over of a newspaper, but mostly there’s just silence.
Yesterday I was part of a friendly group that kicked the silence model right out the door. It started when two retirement-aged women started talking and comparing notes on something. I put down my Kindle and joined in. A man came in and he participated in the conversation too. One of the woman’s husband and adult daughter entered, so we all introduced ourselves. (Yes, we actually shared names in the doctor’s waiting room…unheard of!) A couple of people noted how much fun we were having, and one called it a party. It was almost sad when the nurse came to call somebody into the examination room and they had to leave. While her mother saw the doctor, the daughter and I had a nice conversation about retailing. After they left, one of the woman who had been telling us about her frustrating medical condition popped her head in before she left to let me know she was doing much better. Then I was alone in the room.
Before long, an elderly man came in, preparing to sit in the usual silence. I wasn’t ready to let the conversation end, so I asked him a question. Before long, he was telling me about his life – he was in his nineties and was upset he couldn’t do all the things he used to be able to do. He had a lot of physical complaints and didn’t seem to have much companionship in his life. I am hoping that maybe a brief show of interest from a stranger may have given him just a little comfort. I wished him well.
When I went back to college a few years ago, I chose to major in Communication Studies. I became passionate about the power of honest communication and authentic interactions to change the world. Yesterday we might not have made any big, outright changes, but together a small group of people helped make a positive impact on each other’s day. That has to be a contribution to what is right in the world.
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Beautiful authentic story
Shelley, only you could make waiting in a Dr’s office fun! Thanks for the reminder that we need to reach out to people to enrich our own lives.
Shelley,what a neat story. Thanks for sharing it. I am reminded of my own encounters with strangers. There is something so enriching about the conversations that happen when you least expect them. They are vehicles for connections which we all need.
Lovely Story. I also enjoy striking up conversations with people I happen to meet along life’s journey.
In retirement I’ve found that so many people need to TALK –with so few willing to Listen. It is truly awakening to be in a midst of grey haired folks who have so much to say, to share, to have someone know a piece about them and very few who value the art of listening. Okay, just had to a moment on my pulpit–I’ll listen now. Thanks, Barb
It is humbling to realize that the simple act of conversation can create a meaningful interaction. I hope to be more aware as opportunities present themselves.