Retired dentist here. That conversation was probably less one-sided than you thought, John. Over the years those mumbles, grunts, moans, and gurgles turn into a language all their own. Add in the occasional sentence fragment, and we usually get the gist.
Great writing "exercise" John! You captured that issue of having a chatty sweet person working in your mouth and yet you somehow managed to maintain a conversation. For me, going to the dentist - a lifelong torture event due to complex issues with bone and bite - is one of life's worst tortures. Yet we too have a great practice here in Port Townsend - the father the periodontist/surgeon, the son the dentist/manager, and some amazing staff over the years who make it feel safe and comfortable. See, you brought all that out!
Nice to see that you’re polishing a skill that I know you to have already. That’s the whole oral stewardship theory: preserve what works, and get some professional help from time to time. Keep writing, please, and I’ll keep forwarding. Bravo for all you do for your communities.
What a fine post, John Lovie! Over the time I’ve followed you, I’ve learned how much of a conversationalist you are. Now, even in a dental hygienist’s chair! Excellent post…again.
Retired dentist here. That conversation was probably less one-sided than you thought, John. Over the years those mumbles, grunts, moans, and gurgles turn into a language all their own. Add in the occasional sentence fragment, and we usually get the gist.
True enough, Brad. The one-sidedness was in the telling!
Great writing "exercise" John! You captured that issue of having a chatty sweet person working in your mouth and yet you somehow managed to maintain a conversation. For me, going to the dentist - a lifelong torture event due to complex issues with bone and bite - is one of life's worst tortures. Yet we too have a great practice here in Port Townsend - the father the periodontist/surgeon, the son the dentist/manager, and some amazing staff over the years who make it feel safe and comfortable. See, you brought all that out!
John, this is wonderful. I was with you the whole piece. And I can so relate to those awkward conversations in the dentist chair. Thank you
Thank you so much, Catherine!
We love this one, John!
Love seeing what this has turned into after being present for its beginnings! Fantastic dialogue!
Thank you, Holly! That means a lot.
Loved this... felt like I was there, but on a good way.
Nice to see that you’re polishing a skill that I know you to have already. That’s the whole oral stewardship theory: preserve what works, and get some professional help from time to time. Keep writing, please, and I’ll keep forwarding. Bravo for all you do for your communities.
Thank you, John. A little professional help from time to time helps me get out of my own way!
What a fine post, John Lovie! Over the time I’ve followed you, I’ve learned how much of a conversationalist you are. Now, even in a dental hygienist’s chair! Excellent post…again.
Gary, thank you so much,
Enjoyed the hell out of this John 👏
Jill, thank you so much! 🙏
Well done narrative John. I could really sense the dialogue as written since I have had that same experience at my dentist office
Thanks so much, Chuck!
Well done! I loved this post!
Thank you so much, Sunny!