‘Hi .. Conversation Changes Lives’ Book Blog
“Hi” is a wealth of information that will encourage you, entice you, to take the first tentative steps to engage with others, to develop a sense of worth in one’s involvement with others, and with the community we share.
I highly recommend this treasure trove of practices, delightful story ‘snippets’, and compelling rationale for conversation. — Ken Annandale, Educator
We welcome your comments, and experiences as you let conversation change your life after reading the book. View a TV feature about Hi or view our entertaining book launch
What do you need in your current journey or pursuit?
As much as I hate to say it, the number one thing I need in my journey right now is money. Currently, I have an extensive, caring friend group, a loving family, and I am in fairly healthy shape with a roof over my head, so in my opinion, I’m not doing too bad for myself. I have a couple of ideas for myself after I graduate, but like most things in life, they require some money. Here’s what they are:
A) Go traveling
B.) Go to Grad School
So choice number A is my preferred choice because quite frankly I am tired of school, and could use a nice little break somewhere far away from North America. The second option is one that would further my education and better position myself for an excellent job in the future. However, similar to traveling, Grad School isn’t free, so it looks like I will have to work for a year or two after my undergrad to accumulate the require funds for either one of those decisions. So I guess I have some thinking to do.
However, I think if you asked my mother the number one thing I need right now, she would tell you a girlfriend…. Sorry mom, but maybe just a couple more years until I try and settle down with the right women.
What’s a recent adventure?
This past weekend my friends and I went camping to Sombrio Beach. It’s a beautiful, lush, rain forest area, where you can camp directly on the beach, directly within walking distance of a number of gorgeous waterfalls. To start the trip, we had to make multiple grueling trips from the car to our spot, and of course, we picked the furthest campsite away from our cars. However, the back breaking pain of carrying 50-pound boxes is soon forgotten when you set up camp, and spend the next two days around some of the most remarkable scenery one can imagine. From watching Bald Eagles soaring down and catching fish straight out of the ocean, to multiple strangers stopping by on their stroll to say hello, there is never a dull moment when out in the bush. I always find its hard to get people rallied up to go camping, especially with work, school, and untrustworthy weather. But as soon as you muster up the strength to go on an outdoor weekend adventure, and experience the beauty of it, you realize why so many people fall in love with mother nature.
I’ve borrowed a tablet for the journey to New Zealand and plan on diving into your e-book on the plane, in the airport terminals… anywhere I can! It’s my travel treat.
A math prof who teaches as a traveler in many ways
How comfortable are you with strangers in your day to day affairs?
I find I am more comfortable with strangers than the average person, and talking to strangers for the past few weeks has definitely increased that comfort level. However, that comfort level also depends on the willingness of the other person to hold a conversation. Many people don’t want to be approached, and will typically display that message with how they carry themselves. But people who come off as open, friendly, and inviting, make it extra easy for people to feel comfortable around them, even if they are a total stranger. I always try to come of as easily approachable, as some of my most memorable professors and teachers have had that personality type.
What is a travel moment that has stood out for you?
A travelling moment that stood out for me was the first time we met some really good travelling friends of ours. We we’re a group of 4 guys in Luang Prabang, Laos, just hanging out a local bar. We noticed 3 ladies playing cards a few tables over and thought we would join them. Now, we didn’t get invited to their table, so at first they were a bit uncomfortable with us randomly joining. But after a few drinks and some conversation, we soon found out our groups got along just perfectly. We ended up travelling with these three ladies for the next month, really solidifying our relationships. I now know I have a few couches I can sleep on if I ever visit Australia.
Traveling is a question of risk and reward….
Great story