"Really ask!" I can still hear Kristin shouting. One of my most influential mentors at grad school was Kristin Linklater, esteemed vocal coach, actor, teacher, and director. Anytime she caught an ounce of artifice in our performances she'd immediately call us out on it. Merely saying words on a page weren't enough. We had to connect.
What's interesting is her lessons in the classroom transcended the stage. She wanted us to engage with the world outside as well; to speak up when there was wrong, to live boldly, and to take an interest in current events and how we might shape them. She also wanted us to heighten our ability to listen and ask meaningful questions.
The other night while hanging out with a good friend, we began talking about our family histories. I asked him how long his family had lived in California. He beamed as he recounted stories of great-uncles, grandparents, and distant cousins. He explained how they settled in Sacramento and eventually made their way to the Bay Area. I got the sense that nobody had asked him anything in a long time.
If you get a chance today, strike up a conversation with someone. Take an interest in what they have to say by connecting and REALLY asking.
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