A recent conversation with my brother went as follows. After complaining to him that I might have to role play in my Introduction to Pastoral Care class (sexual harassment, listening, pre-marital counseling, listening, and other such things) my brother immediately interrupted and said: “Pfft. You are a great actor.”
There was then a short pause.
“Your entire life is a lie.”
Ouch!
But pardon me for fixating on this: “I might have to role play … listening.”
Welcome to the rest of your life.
I joke. Mostly.
He’s already had tons of practice!
I’m betting that this animosity started in the womb.
Role playing listening simply requires that you nod, give reassuring comments now and again (“Oh?” “Oh.” “Uh huh.” “Really?!” etc.), and look in the general direction of the speaker.
You know it was a Seinfeld reference right….
And yes, this started back in the womb – he took all my food.