When You Say Nothing At All by LisaMay About Nothing at All writing prompt entry |
I wailed plaintively to Mum: “But I won’t know what to say. I’ve got nothing at all to talk about.” A boy had asked me out on my first date, aged fourteen. I fancied him, but I thought I would ruin it by being struck dumb with nerves, and if I did say anything he might think I was stupid. She gave me a useful piece of advice that since then has enabled me to relax when feeling stressed, and just have fun. “Remember, there is such a thing as a companionable silence. Just keep smiling.” The advice saw me through the date. I had face-ache when I got home. Federico may well have thought I looked like the village idiot rather than sounding like an idiot, but all in all it was a successful date and led to many. Deep communication can often be achieved by saying nothing at all. A sympathetic presence can be comforting and uplifting. I remember the companionship our family dog, Winkie, provided when I was a kid. If I was feeling upset about anything, I’d sit on the back step and he’d come over to lean against me. In human relations, too, a silent hug can speak volumes. One of my favourite songs is titled: “When You Say Nothing At All”. When I hear it I am always reminded of my mother’s advice for my first date. My father’s was more pointed. He asked me: “What will you do if Federico puts his hand on your knee?” When I replied, “Why would he want to do that?” my parents realised I wasn’t quite ready for dating, so I quickly received some more helpful advice. But Federico was respectful and nothing at all untoward happened.
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