Talk Talk Talk

Musings from Dennis #286. “So sorry my son (he was about 10) talks too much!”, the mom apologized to me as he was happily chatting away to me while on a social services project I was on with my church some years back. “Oh please don’t stop him, who knows this mouth of his might be his future - and to your benefit”, I gently told her.

I said that because I know the type. I was just like that kid.

From Primary 1 (age 7), I was the one who couldn’t stop talking - enough to earn ruler whacks on my knuckles for distracting the class. Even in kindergarten, a classmate (now a friend) still reminds me how I got him into trouble because I wouldn’t stop yakking. By age 11, my teacher actually put it in my report book.

But that “problem” became a gift.

It’s the same gift that now lets me connect with people in this industry, present decks, pitch for work, and build relationships. Of course, I’ve also met my match - a few clients who can talk me into silence because they never paused, haha.

So here’s my small encouragement to parents and educators: When you see a child with a natural flair for communication - even if it feels irritating - look closer. There may be something there worth nurturing. Our industry needs them.