Sitting at the table with two fairly new members of TEXSAR (Texas Search and Rescue) during this morning’s breakfast at the annual volunteer appreciation weekend, I asked a variety of questions. They shared about their jobs, their calls to serve and much more. I love learning about people, which means a few moments of small talk can turn into long conversations. The one this morning certainly did.

When people share, understanding grows; when people share, connections are made.

I’ve declared often that I am not a fan of, or willing participant in, small talk. After a bit of it, it is time to either move on or move into deeper, richer waters. I can swim around there for long periods of time.

As the three of us finalized our conversation this morning, I thanked them for sharing and being patient with questions that turned into enjoyable conversation. They both responded enthusiastically and with broad smiles, “Thanks for asking!”  The level of appreciation they had for someone having a genuine interest in them was disarming.

A few questions that reveal a generous interest, shared in conversation instead of interrogation, become a gift to all involved. I’m reminded of that because of a married couple who were at the event and had engaged in a similar conversation with me last year as the two members had with me at breakfast. When I saw the married couple this year, I introduced myself and they remembered me and the topics of the conversation that we shared last year.

Share the gift of asking about others and enhance the gift by listening intently.