When someone shares a rather ugly story with me–one that feels like gossip and has probably been distorted–I try to pleasantly respond: “Really? That doesn’t sound like so-and-so to me. Then I switch to a different topic. I don’t build on the idea. I don’t preach.

Of course, I’m human and don’t alway succeed.

I’d start with the idea that I’m calling to make sure I understand the request. I certainly want to do what’s best, and that means I need to clarify some of the details. Then, as the other person hears what has be handed to me–if it has been distorted–he or she will let me know.

He never said a word. I thought I’d hear from him, but nothing came from it.

Oops, I misspelled Being and my in my post. If your moderator can correct those before adding my comment to the blog, I would be most appreciative. Thanks, Steve