‘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
The essential role that not judging others plays in making great connections with strangers
Today while on the bus, a cohort of elementary school kids crammed on the bus. A group of them sat beside me and turned what was once a quiet, easy- going bus ride, into what felt like a school field trip. At first I was somewhat annoyed by the 20 plus mini humans all boarding the bus, as they were all joking, and smiling, basically just having more fun than I was.
As the bus ride went on and the more I talked to these kids the less I was annoyed with them. One kid in particular, caught my attention, as brilliantly, he was the one to start up a conversation with me. This kids name was Gavin, and after we chatted for around 5 minutes, one of his classmates commented: “Hey look guys, Gavin is talking to complete strangers again”.
I found this hilarious, as Gavin was a very straight forward kid. Right away I could tell he enjoyed speaking what was on his mind, so I could picture him striking conversation with all kinds of people on the bus.
Anyway, I used this moment as a teaching lesson, telling the children that in many sitations it’s okay to talk to strangers, especailly in an open and safe setting such as one on the bus. I continued telling them you never know who you might just meet, and what kinds of wonderful sotries and information that is passed along simply by having conversations, you just have to be cautious and careful with who you approach.. Gavin agreed and said that I could possibly even end being the prime minister of Canada one day, you never know.
I honestly thought that the bus ride was going to be a miserable one as soon as i saw all the children walk on, but i’m glad to say that these kids provided me with one of my most memorable bus rides in awhile.
Justin’s presentation at UVic Geography’s ‘Bridging the Gap’ sessions about his work with Hi!
A stranger on the bus shared a life changing moment from one conversation
A good friend of mine invited me to talk on his podcast, about the book and sort of this unique style of living. I thought it would both be beneficial for us, to get the message about the book out, and meaningful content on their show.