My professor suggested I share this story with you. A professor I am glad to say is now a reader of my blog. She was so kind to tell me how much she enjoyed it.Last week my internet connection was mysteriously disconnected. After spending most of the night wondering what people did with their time before electricity, I called Bell Sympatico's Tech Support line. I was greeted by a friendly receptionist who had a distinct Indian accent. He efficiently diagnosed the problem and helped me get back online. Which in this instance means nudging some cords back into place. Now that my problem was solved, he tried to sell me some new Bell products and services. So I decided to flip the whole conversation on its head.
'Can I ask you a question?'
'Of course.'
'Where are you calling from?'
'India.'
'Can I ask you another question?'
'Of course.'
'What did you think of Slumdog Millionaire?'
He loved Slumdog Millionaire! My new friend from India was so proud of his countrymen for winning the Oscars! I think it was just the break he needed from answering phones and solving problems and I had been waiting for months to discover how the people of India felt about the film. This was my opportunity, and it was one of the best conversations I've had in a long time. Instead of selling me things I don't need, two people from across the world enjoyed each other's company. I hope the person in charge of screening calls for quality control finds this particular conversation and smiles. My new friend from India did a great job. Good on ya.
4 COMMENTS :
Question: Did you ask his name?
Statement: It's nice to know I'm not the only one who talks to strangers.
Question: If you're no longer strangers at the end of the conversation, what would you call it? An 'introduction'?
His name was Anton.
I'm going to do more of talking to strangers.
I think the conversation was framed by the idea that we would both still be strangers after it was over. A brief introduction.
I love your guts.
hahaha he was probably fired
-d.
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