A: I’m afraid.
B: I know.
A: I don’t know why.
B: It’s uncomfortable. And scary.
A: What is?
B: The truth.
A: Yeah. One time I told the truth and it got me in a whole lot of trouble and created a whole big unnecessary mess, and the whole thing could have been avoided if I had just kept my damn mouth shut.
B: Silence is golden.
A: Damn right.
[A long silence]
A: Did you say something?
B: Nope.
A: Cause I could’ve sworn I heard –
B: Nope.
A: Well, maybe the silence is the scary part.
B: I hear you.
A: So what do I do, just start talking? Cause I have a lot to say, a lot of opinions and observations.
B: Maybe start by listening.
A: Oh. Ok. yeah. That feels better. Easier. Less pressure.
B: What do you hear?
A: Hmmmmm. Voices.
B: What are they saying?
A: I’m not sure. It’s hard to make out. Some are just talking, some are crying, some are screaming, some are singing.
B: Try giving your full attention. What do you hear?
A: Stories. A lot of stories. I like stories
B: Good.
A: These stories are different, though. I don’t recognize the voices.
B: What do you mean?
A: They’re not my people.
B: Are they people, though?
A: Yes. Of course.
B: Just checking. Keep listening.
A: I’m not sure I want to.
B: I know. But that’s why we’re here.
A: I’m afraid.
B: I know. What are you afraid of?
A: What if their story contradicts my story?
B: Now we’re getting somewhere.
A: Well
B: It’s just a story.
A: No, it’s not just a story. It’s the story. It’s my story.
B: So what are you so afraid of?
A: What if my story isn’t THE story?
B: It isn’t
A: What?
B: Do you like your story?
A: Yes.
B: Does it make you feel good about yourself?
A: Mostly.
B: Is it honest?
A: Not completely.
B: Now we’re getting somewhere.
A: Ok. That was scary to admit, but it feels kinda . . . better
B: Ok. Then, keep listening.