Being a Quiet Person in a Talker’s World Definitely Has Its Challenges

But it also has one big built-in benefit

Photo by Antenna on Unsplash

“I really don’t understand how some people can just talk nonstop without even taking a breath!” my mom said, sounding incredulous.

We were driving home from a perfect, relaxing afternoon spent sitting by the water at a friend’s cottage.

We’d talked some, of course, but we probably spent just as much time sitting together in silence, both reading our books or looking out at the lake. There were boats going by towing kids doing all kinds of water sports, and we were simply happy to enjoy the beautiful sunny weather.

As we rounded another bend, I was now nodding my head in solidarity, totally consumed by this rant we had going on.

And the more I agreed, the more animated she became. I’d inject some other behavior I found confusing into the conversation, and then we’d both passionately agree with that.

This went on for several minutes until I couldn’t help but laugh. I just suddenly found it all so funny — the conversation, how enthusiastic we were about it, and how much fun I was having talking about it.

But most of all, I found it funny how little I truly understood about people who aren’t like me. It just…