Jan 24, 2005 00:17
I tend to be a very Socratic type of conversationalist, asking questions and listening to others with whom I talk. I get along the easiest and best with people who can not only answer questions but also ask me questions as well, showing their interest in our chat or friendship. Sometimes I get really bored and frustrated talking to people who don't ask questions and always just place their side of things in front of you. Then it's like I have to throw my stuff out in front of me as if I'm egging a wall. The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines 'converse' (as in conversation):
2 a : to exchange thoughts and opinions in speech : TALK b : to carry on an exchange similar to a conversation (as with a computer)
I think the key word here is "exchange", as in to give and receive. Not just to 'give', as in giving a side of a conversation.
Same thing with doing things for or relating to people. I believe in give-and-take, not just take-and-take.