I don't really enjoy receptions and cocktail parties and so forth. Maybe it's because I'm an introvert. But I think it's really because I don't like small talk, since I do enjoy being with people. I just don't like standing around and talking about totally useless stuff.
I get to a party and someone says “Hey, what do you think about Brett Favre joining the Minnesota Vikings?” Or, “Did you hear that Joey is going around with Nancy?” Or, “What's your favorite brand of toaster?” I feel like I want to fall asleep while standing there balancing my soft drink and appetizer.
What I really want to talk about is the meaning of life and how society should conduct itself. But NO, that's forbidden territory. Those are the very things that we aren't supposed to talk about: religion and politics. So instead of saying what I really want to say, like “Why do you suppose we drive around in $30,000 cars while a third of the world is trying to survive on $300 a year per person and our society does almost nothing about it?” Or, “Do you have meaning or purpose for your life? When you're gone will the world have been a better place for your having been here?” Instead I say something like “Do you remember aunt Martha? She used to wear really funny glasses.”
My purpose for this blog is to the say the things that I can't say in polite company. While I spend most of each day saying and listening to small talk, I will sneak back to my computer post and what I really want to say on this blog.
I totally agree. Unfortunately I don't have the self control you do. I end up bringing up those "forbidden subjects", if anything just to bring a little life to the party. I've gotten in trouble a couple of times with family, though my friends are usually open minded enough to carry on a conversation.
ReplyDeleteLike you know I am addicted to blogging. I think this is a great idea! I look forward to reading it.
ReplyDeleteI'm picking up what you are laying down. I agree. But I'm like JT, I talk about the forbidden topics anyway. I don't care if I get in trouble. There are places where biting your tongue is appropriate - at the office, church, in front of a police officer - but at a party, anything goes. If someone doesn't like what you are talking about, then they can go talk to someone else.
ReplyDeleteNow that I think about it, the forbidden topics could be considered a buzzkill at a party. They are heavy subjects. It could totally kill the party vibe. Maybe Aunt Martha's glasses could help maintain the light-hearted party tone. You need to pick your audience and location when it comes to discussing the forbidden topics.
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