My wife and I feel that having five sons, five daughters in law, and fifteen grandchildren is the most important and gratifying part of our lives. (Besides each other!) But I learned a lesson recently when I was out socializing with my bike club after a ride. I was going on about having children and grandchildren and how this was by far the most gratifying thing in our lives. I did begin to notice that one woman become somewhat perplexed and confused that I would say that. Later her husband drew me aside and said that too much self disclosure may not be the best conversation starter. (They have no children) I agreed with him and now I try to limit my conversations to what interests others. If they want to talk family then I can do that too, but I need to be more considerate and not talk incessantly about subjects that may not interest everyone. Now I try to talk about golf, sports, stock market, etc. Everyone gets to choose how they want to their lives. My way is just one path.
|