Brick Wall Dilemma

Fellow introverts, I have found a solution to a dilemma. Now being an introvert myself, I understand how different and complex each introvert is and that generalizing an introvert is as horrible as throwing away a full, unopened Dasani water bottle (yes...that was slightly an environmental plug, but I digress). Anyways, a situation I have found myself in several times when conversing with extroverts is the common phrase “I can talk to a brick wall.” Now usually at this point in the conversation, I haven’t said anything for a while as I have slowly morphed into a brick wall and begin to wonder why Sticky Notes don’t come in plain white with blue lines. However, it is at that classic extrovert phrase where the conversation seems to be in my court. How am I suppose to respond to that? Do I ask them what they say to a brick wall? Do I laugh and nod and hope they talk about themselves some more? Is it socially acceptable now to just walk away from a conversation?—please know that I am trying to make you, the reader, smile. 

Introverts, rest at ease as I give a possible way to reply to the comment that has stumped me for years. Simply say with a smile, “I can listen to a brick wall.”

Now take in mind that I haven’t enumerated all the possibilities for “creative” or, dare I say, “unique” ways to respond to the Brick Wall Dilemma. Though, when I thought of this on the spot and used it in response, I truly felt the other person begin to understand me and my perspective a little bit more. The best part is the reply is true! I truly love to listen to and observe people and surroundings. I’ve never necessarily sat in front of a brick wall and seriously listened to it, but I’ve closely assessed brick walls, felt the texture of the solid material, and followed the patterns multicolored bricks tend to create. I suppose that could pass as a different type of listening. 

To conclude, conversations with people is one of the biggest blessings, I believe, in life. It helps us see different perspectives, laugh at ourselves, understand a new concept, and an abundance more. As an introvert, it’s important to be our authentic selves in all manors of conversation even when the other person is as intimidating as Firelord Ozai. The Brick Wall Dilemma is just a product from an introvert’s overthinking, but nonetheless, embrace each conversation authentically and maybe one day the brick wall will say something in return.

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Psalms 91:1-2 (NIV) "Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, 'He is my refuge and my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.'"

Apotheosis - the perfect form or example of something; the highest or best part of something; elevation to divine status