We had our annual conference for work last weekend (there went my weekend!) It went well but nothing exhausts me more than being around a lot of people - especially ones I don't know or don't know well. This, I read, is the mark of a true introvert, although only people who know me well believe that I'm that way.
There were 125 people who signed up, most of whom I hadn't met before. Fortunately none of the real cranks were there this year - mostly nice people and only a few irritating ones.
I was probably most surprised by a guy from the Southern part of our state who came up and introduced himself and said, "Riot Kitty! I'm J. You're wonderful! You always help me when I can't get your boss on the phone! And you helped me today the minute I walked in!"
Thanking him, I was puzzled at how I had helped, because I hadn't talked to him (so I thought) at the conference prior to that moment.
Then it dawned on me: I had shown him the way to the restroom.
Helpful is definitely in the eye of the beholder!
11 comments:
Wow. If showing this guy to the restroom doesn't get you a ticket into Heaven, I just don't know what would.
Um, which way to the loo? Oh, wait - you're supposed to give me chocolate. That's right...
hey, helpful is good...and had the lewis and Clark expedition had someone like you, maybe nobody would have died
just in case the joke is to esoteric, the only death on the Lewis and Clark expedition had to do with a bursting bladder. yes, you are welcome for that mental image.
I'm an introverted extrovert.
Like the photo!
showing someone the way to the bathroom is an admirable skill
I can relate. I can definitely, most certainly relate. Heh, I think, given the chance, I could redefine the word "introvert". I'm the person who will pointedly move away if someone stands within 4 feet of me - on the bus, in the queue, wherever. o.O
And I hate it when random strangers come and talk to me. It's just weird and creepy. O.o Today some dude came and told me "hey good morning!" with a really cheesy smile on his face. I told him to fuck off. You can't blame me - I've never seen that dude...ever.
I took a test that showed that I am an ambivert, meaning there are characteristics of introvert and extrovert. I am comfortable with groups and enjoy social interaction, but also love time alone and away from the crowd.
It is amazing how little things like showing that guy to the restroom made him feel special. :)
Ha! That's funny but oh so true. I know you don't have kids but believe me, knowing where the bathroom is located can be VERY important.
I am the same way. I am an extrovert to/with people I know and like and an introvert with everyone else. And with age...it is getting worse.
I went to a conference 2 weeks ago and was shocked when someone asked me to go to lunch with her at the break. yikes!! but it ended up being fine. except she ended up breaking down crying at one point about her daughter. there is something about me that screams psychologist...but it is all good.
and being able to find a bathroom is very important!!
I may be a bit of an oxymoron. While I'm extroverted on my blog and elsewhere, I'm extremely introverted around people.
I don't know you, then I try to make myself completely invisible. Or I know you and don't like you, I also make myself invisible (comes in handy at family get togethers and meetings/conferences).
If I know you and like you, I crawl around the perimeter so as I can get the first word in before you do.
That guy sounds like a true extrovert, one with gratitude!
Love the photo!! :)
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