Tell me about yourself…

I said that to a new friend the other day and he did. And then I told him about myself. When I returned home and talked a bit with my wife about the visit she asked me all sorts of questions about my new friend and I didn’t have answers for any of them. I was interested in my new friends creative imagination. Perhaps my wife was interested in his reputation. I do bring home some strange critters every now and then. Poets, professional speakers, songwriters, even actors. Generally she brings home church ladies. They all have their good sides. Perhaps I should develop the habit of asking new acquaintances these questions, “What is the best thing you have ever done and what is the worst and is either one of them who you are?” Ah then with those answers on hand I might never be delighted or disappointed by a new friend.

Not so long ago I met a new friend at an art exhibit. We exchanged small talk and I had a nice lunch with he and his wife. Then a few days later I learned online that he was reported to be a pedophile; he was an M.D., a pediatrician, a professor and he had lost his enviable position at a university, his license to practice in another state and was becoming involved in a number of lawsuits filed by alleged victims. And then just a few months later I read of his death by his own hand.He had seemed like a very well educated, friendly, likeable sort of chap. But what do I know. So, you there reading this blog. Yes YOU. Tell me about yourself.