I also know we most likely have differing interests. I like fantasy books, alien apocalypses, and sewing. You probably do not.
I do not like to cook. I have made this abundantly clear since to anyone who brings up the topic of food. I like to eat, but have zero interest in the preparation of food.
So I'm continually boggled by the person who has this conversation with me daily.
Her: I made the BEST thing last night.
Me: <silence>
Her: I shredded some zucchini...
Me: <silence>
Her: Mixed it with a can of peeled tomatoes and a can of diced tomatoes....
Me: <silence>
Her: Heated it on the stove for 20 minutes....
Me: <silence>
Her: and it was the best spaghetti sauce EVER!
Me: okay.
Because I have told her countless times that I do not cook and have no interest in it. I believe the only way to get her to stop is provide zero encouragement. Silence, no questions, no fake interest, nothing.
Yet we do this routine every day.
What's the big deal, you ask? Just talk to her? Okay, fair enough. But let me put it this way. Would you like it if I talked to you about stuff you aren't interested in?
Me: Hey! I made the dumbest mistake sewing last night. I just finished oiling the race and hook and was putting the face plates back on. I ran a piece of scrap through and nothing happened! I forgot to raise the feed dogs, like a dolt.
You: uh, okay.
Right, because there is nothing at all to say in response. It's not like you can share your sewing experience (or maybe you can, I dunno). The most you can respond with is, "okay." It's way more polite than saying, "I care because?"
It's the same as talking about a TV show that you know the other person doesn't watch.
Me: Did you see Falling Skies last night? What do you think of this Skitter rebellion? Do you think it's a trap?
You: huh?
My point is, if you want to start a conversation with someone, pick a topic they can respond to. Don't leave them wondering why the heck you are talking to them. Unless you like to look foolish.
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