People are on my Mind
People have always fascinated me in all their walks. When I talk to people younger than me I remember fondly what they are going through . . . when talking to older folks, I marvel at the relaxed life that lay before me. I have a heart for people hurting as well. When I hear someone is having troubles I always put the infamous Peanuts “Psychiatric Help 5 cents” sign on and do my best.
Is it better to be quiet than to offer advice? I’d say no. What can it hurt to share your life experiences with another person. There’s time at work and with friends to get into those crevices of life you don’t always address. Friendship is strengthened by intention, and not necessarily the right answers.
Listening is the #1 important thing in life. Hear what people are saying. In my life I am very loud and seldom take the time to simply hear someone. I, above all people, need to practice listening. Sometimes that is all people need to get through things. Using echoing, or a form of “active listening,” with words and phrases like: “Oh yes I hear that.” etc., will better help that person organize her/his thoughts as well.
Did I mention I am fascinated by people? They are amazing in all their varieties - maybe that’s why I like this blogging stuff so much.
It is the human reaction and acknowledgment that they matter that makes the difference more than anything sometimes. My friends know better than to tell me they are hurting without my doing my best heartfelt therapist imitation. Unfortunately, it has come out in a comment of two on the blogs of complete strangers.
Humans are fascinating.
Marcia, I knew we were 2 voyeurs of a feather ;)
I think you have to be fascinated by people to blog. Face it, reading the blogs of strangers does ring a bit of voyeurism! Not in the creepy sense, of course….
I love people watching and talking to complete strangers. I’m rather “Dear Abby-ish” myself. My friends seek my advice out a lot. I must be doing something right!
Jessica
If that’s the case then blogging should connect us with other people fascinated with people. Very cool indeed! I saw a little old man at the gas station the other day and saw my life flash before my eyes, it was very emotional. We’re all in this thing doing the best we can for 80 years with luck or even less! Lately I find blogging a nice way to escape from that reality! Is that normal? Probably not, because I’ve never been normal! Thanks for the comments!
I’m afraid that I am another who is addicted to observing other humans. I enjoy sitting on the sidelines watching a party as much as being a part of the action. Listening is a fine art, and must be cultivated. So many times in conversations people are “waiting for their turn to talk” instead of listening. It’s a shame. When you blog, people at least get to finish their thoughts before they get interrupted…