Pygmalion Discussion

We tend to label ourselves as either introverts or extraverts, and we’re self-proclaimed introverts, excusing ourselves from unnecessary conversations seems justifiable. We say that because small talk doesn’t coincide with our personality, we aren’t obligated to do it. 

However, this simply isn’t true. Everyone, out of respect for his fellow man, is responsible for learning to converse face-to-face in a way that makes the other person or people feel comfortable. Bowing out of developing the skill of talking is self-serving to be sure, and is also devaluing of people you encounter naturally just in the daily act of living. 

Some of the most refreshing conversation is reserved, thoughtful, and measured, and learning to talk personably and respectfully doesn’t mean you should be loud, funny, and entertaining. Conversation isn’t a stage show with one performer and one observer. It’s giving and taking, listening and speaking, paying attention and giving someone the gift of your serious consideration, interested eye-contact, and deliberate pause. It’s considering another person worth your time and attention, and responding to that person so he isn’t left feeling shortchanged after offering an idea that he could just as well have kept to himself. 

For that reason, we will often take time in class for small group discussions. Use this time deliberately to practice listening to one another and responding in a way that communicates respect and demonstrates an understanding of the value of another human being.