justplainbil

Just Plain Bill

“Do I know you,

you remind me of my…?”

While I was working as a clerk at a polling place, a woman stopped by my station and asked, “Do I know you?”

I said I wasn’t sure, to which she responded, “You remind me of my gynecologist.”

I was somewhat taken aback by her comment, but recovered quickly and then responded, “I hope you like your gynecologist.”

To which she replied, “Yes, I do.”

I guess there are lots of folks of whom we may be reminded, but I must admit that was one that surprised me.

I imagine I’m like most people who may recognize someone, but uncertain from where I may know them. The awkwardness becomes compounded when you factor in the unfortunately common malady of not remembering someone’s name.

I’ve always marveled at those who are able to remember names, and that’s one reason I appreciate going to events where everyone has a nametag.

Over the years, I’ve read several articles and listened to many presentations on secrets of remembering names. I usually get as far as remembering the first initials of their first and last names, or occasionally associating their name with an animal, but usually I end up hoping someone else joins the conversation and mentions their name.

I have learned from this experience to try harder to use clues and cues to help remember someone’s name, or at least whom they remind me of (and to not end a sentence with a preposition.)

So much to remember, and so little time…