Commenting

I comment on about a dozen blogs a day, and read a dozen more to see if they've got anything new. I'll throw in comments there from time to time. I love the net.

The point is, you see, that people read my opinion. That's why I have my own blog in the first place, right? I have this unfortunate tendency to make every other comment in a conversation, regardless of how many other people are present. My family is pretty good at cutting in and limiting me to 1/4-1/3 of the statements if they are present. It's not that I'm not fascinated by what others say. You won't find anyone who will listen and remember as well as I will. Well, usually. But I must believe in my heart of hearts that once someone says something, the most cogent response in the room is the one I wish to make.

This showed up dramatically in speaking Romanian. I put all my energy into expressing myself, and despite my lack of facility for languages, I could get something of my idea across to just about anyone. What they said back to me, I never understood. But why would that matter, exactly? I act like I've understood, slap them on the back, and try to answer them in some way. And if I actually have understood them somewhat, so much the better! What more could you want?

So you visitors from your own blogs, I do remember what you wrote. I remember what the other commenters said as well. And I'll think about it, and quote you, and tell everyone what a fine fellow you are. Or canny lass, as the case may be. They don't have a category for best commenter on the weblog awards every year, but if they did, I'd be nominated.

Just remember it's my turn to speak next.