An example of a recent awkward conversation, which took place with a perfectly nice person:
Me: So, what are you up to this fall?
Him: Oh, I'm starting a master's program at BYU.
Me: Oh, master of what?
(Nice phrasing, Liz...)
Him: Uh...master of public administration.
Me: (strangely excitedly, due to my interest in that program) Hey! That's my favorite one!
Long pause...
A few other words are spoken, and the conversation ends.
Today, I bumped into a few ward members that I've met before. Most of the conversations were fairly awkward, culminating with a choice exchange this evening.
Me: So...you're just sitting around, uh, enjoying...? (Hmm...enjoying what, Liz? The scenery? Text messaging? The stock market? That sentence certainly needs an end...)
Him: I'm just a dollar waiting for a dime.
Me: Oh, huh. (Puzzled look...this is a phrase I've not heard before...I figure it means he's waiting for something, or someone...)
Him: Just waiting for everyone to be ready to go.
Long pause...
Me: (Attempted joking) Isn't that just the way it is? Always waiting for people...
Him: Well, earlier today, they had to wait for me, so...
Me: Well, that sounds fair.
Long pause...
Me: Uh, well, have fun!
From now on, I think I'm just going to walk past people without stopping to talk. Seems better for everyone.
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