Another courtesy to add to columnist Tom Fulks’ examples — civil conversation

Tom Fulks’ column on Aug. 27 (“Confessions of a newsaholic,”) hit home, especially the line about news being the opiate of the masses.

I call most news gossip.

Donald Trump fuels it. Also, I know well the tendency to view the past as superior to the present.

To add to Tom’s examples of common courtesies, I include the art of conversation — where one listens, thinks about what was said and then responds in kind.

No one dominates.

A cross-country train trip enhances conversation because passengers are seated with strangers of all ages, who soon become temporary friends.

I have felt, heard and appreciated every day on a train, but I am often overwhelmed by nonstop talkers elsewhere — what Tom called “a decline in civility.”

Perhaps the beauty of American scenery and the mysterious ugly parts of big cities, plus the relaxation of a long train cruise, foster civil and delightful conversations.

May we learn how to stop anxious talkers politely.

I overheard my daughter, at age 3, shout at her playmates: “Don’t interwupt.”

I love my current taciturn husband who responds politely — when he can hear me.

This story was originally published September 4, 2016 at 3:19 PM with the headline "Another courtesy to add to columnist Tom Fulks’ examples — civil conversation."