Greetings, Abby I’m a sixty-year-old retired woman who is contentedly married and optimistic. I keep up with global happenings and am quite active.
Over the past few years, I’ve realized that a lot of my friends are just interested in talking about themselves. It seems like when we get together for a meal, they chat endlessly about themselves or individuals I don’t know, even though I was taught that a discussion should be an opportunity for both parties to engage in talking and listening. Finally, at the conclusion of the meal, they will ask how you are.
This is really impolite, in my opinion. During a conversation, I should be able to speak edgewise. What can I do to avoid being upset with these rambling friends? — PATIENTLY LISTENING IN NEW YORK
DEAR LISTENING: Older persons who talk only about themselves may do so because they have little else to talk about and their world has become smaller. Pay close attention to what those friends have to say the next time you find yourself in a similar circumstance. If I’m correct, spend less time with them and focus on expanding your social network to include people you share more characteristics with.
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Abigail Van Buren, better known as Jeanne Phillips, is the author of Dear Abby. Her mother, Pauline Phillips, began the company. For more information, visit www.DearAbby.com or send an email to P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.
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