Really? You don't say.

It's been said that the only thing people really like to read about is other people. Or, if it hasn't been said, I'm saying it now. We particularly like to read intimate details about other people's lives. So, I will indulge you. I've been on a campaign to be more social. The going is slow, but things are progressing. The fact that I have to make an effort to be nice to people should tell you a lot about me right off. It's not that I mean to be rude, at least not usually. I am just of a formal nature. I can't walk up to people and say things like, "Tom! What's going on? You are such a stranger--haven't seen you around the building." That would be impossible.

I am, however, working on saying things like this: "Hello Tom, how are you? That's good. How did the reporting assignment go?" But, the one thing I think I have going for me is that I am a sympathetic listener. At least, I can be if I turn it on. I widen my eyes, open my mouth a little and stare at the person, frequently furrowing my brows and nodding. I can look very interested and empathetic. People like that. Especially men. They like to have someone's rapt attention. This trick works in lectures, too. Professors always remember me.

I am always worried I will talk to people too long and they will wish I would go. It's odd that the thing I am afraid of is the thing I am least likely to do. Hmm, self-revelation is a good thing.

My friend Stephanie tells me I need to look people in the eye and smile. I'm trying. I guess I'm afraid people won't smile back. But I have a goal. My lofty goal is to become an inviting, warm and friendly person. I am well on my way with the sympathetic listening technique.