Job 1:5 reads, "The wisest thing one can do is to keep quiet and listen." Job had such a time with his friends! All they wanted to do is give advice, without any sympathy for him at all. So, he turned it around and suggested they keep quiet! And listen! And they did, finally.
I give myself this same advice. No matter where I go, if I come in contact with others, I try to stay quiet about myself. But I ask questions of them, like, "How is your family doing?" What's the most exciting thing that happened to you or your family this past year? "How is the new job/work/baby doing? Are you still enjoying life? Have you got a busy winter planned? People love to answer questions about their life and their family. It's an easy way to get people to talk about themselves, and the best way to encourage, support, and show them you are a friend.
Sometimes folks need to unload what is bothering them. If so, let them! You won't have to carry their load very long, just long enough to let them know you care. And finally, let them know they can call you if they ever want to "kick the cat." You'll listen. (Remember this, Jo!)
Lord Jesus, keep me from talking about myself when I meet a new person. Help me think of ways to ask questions of another's life that he or she may know I'm interested. Help me to be a true friend that does not need to be spot-lighted. Amen.
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