Can we talk?

His and Her Advice Column

         I was reminded recently of a guy with whom I once worked. He was outspoken and politically incorrect. He would make remarks just to get reactions from people. He and I were such opposites. We joked about writing an advice column together.

         I think it could have worked, but he admitted he wasn't disciplined enough to do it on a regular basis. He would always take the obnoxious, in your face response. It came to him naturally. It amazed me how he could rattle off the worst possible answer so quickly, but it always made us laugh out loud. After he had let someone have it, and given him "what-for", I'd say, "No, don't listen to him." Then I'd have a gentler response.

         I can't come up with an answer every time or immediately. But I do know how to validate a sincere person and show concern for their concerns. I try to practice the Golden Rule and consider all sides. Of course, the listener doesn't always want to hear all sides. Sometimes the best advice is just to guide someone in making a decision, but not express any preference.

         Our co-workers thought the column would be a good idea for us, but we all knew people would tune in for the politically incorrect, outrageous responses. Not everyone can give good advice. Not everybody can appreciate good advice. Just look at any social media. Someone expresses a real problem or concern, but they get other people's rants in return or get chastised for having feelings.

         I could probably make up some Jim-type answers for a column, but I'm just not very good at that sarcastic, mean stuff. I still think we could have been a hit.