Hello? Is Anyone There?

I’m no Einstein.  When I speak, I know I’m not explaining the theory of relativity or sharing the meaning of life, but it still would be nice if someone took the time to listen.  It’s not as much fun talking to myself, although at least then I don’t get an argument right?  Right!

Last night we were on our way to parent-teacher conferences at my son’s school.  I made us leave extra early because I wanted to be the first in line to talk to teachers so I could get in and get out.  It’s a free for all; get in line for the report card, then get in line for one teacher, then another line for the next teacher and so on... it’s a zoo.

Anyway, while driving there, we were discussing potential dental work for his daughter.  She’s young and work was expensive, so he had taken her to get a second opinion.  He expounded on and on about how rude the dentist had been, how the dentist had taken less than five minutes to start explaining payment plans and options, how her face looked when he told her he was just there for a second opinion, how her story had changed and how he and the ex had even laughed and joked about it all afterwards.  I respectfully listened to every little detail of his story without interrupting.

We’re trying to show more respect and appreciation for each other so I didn’t rush him, ask him to get to the point or yawn.  Paying better attention to each other is the game plane, right?

Foolishly, I thought this worked both ways.  I agreed with him that maybe waiting on the work was a good idea and mentioned my brother being told he needed dental work at a young age.  At this point, we had arrived at the school.  We were still 20 minutes early, but I parked and thought we could finish our conversation.  I had barely turned off the engine and was mid-sentence when Mr. Hyde removed his seatbelt, exited the car and started striding toward the building.