I saw one of my old college professors the other day, even though he has been dead a good number of years. Now, before you think I’ve gone completely round the bend, let me explain. Actually, I didn’t see him but I saw someone who really reminded me of the long ago prof. He didn’t particularly look like him but his mannerisms, his way of speaking were quite similar to the teacher I mentioned. By listening, I knew that he was intense, short-tempered, tightly wound and inpatient. There! Now you know all about Dr. Somebody who was at Northeastern State a few decades back! His personality type is alive and well.
Personality traits are funny things. Each person is unique but we share certain characteristics or viewpoints, likes and dislikes. Even the way we stand or walk or a weird sense of humor are like somebody else’s, somewhere.
Studying people is educational. It’s fun to take a peek under the social facade. The things we don’t say are as telling as the things we do say. A quick laugh doesn’t always cover the pain in someone’s eyes. A sharp retort or an over-bearing attitude many times is a cover for a lack of confidence.
I always wonder why. Why is one person arrogant, another humble? Why a harsh remark when none is called for? Why tell someone what is obvious?
But, I digress! Getting back to that old professor. Personality types from another time, another place reappear now and then. Meeting them and using them in stories is what writers are made of.
Thought for the day: We don’t know what the future holds but God sees beyond the horizon.
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