One Best Trait

My son has what he calls his James Lipton question: What is your greatest trait that even your critics would grudgingly acknowledge? (He's still working on the wording.) His answer to the question is patience, and I would have to agree. He is incredibly patient, and I have noted this many times in many contexts. Last night, as he was putting together his Ikea furniture (and I may have mentioned it in my blog, I've already forgotten), he never got angry, even when he bent a nail and had to pull it out. I've often told him he is like St. Francis of Assissi with animals; they flock around him. Children also love him, as he is kind and gentle. When he is with his nieces, they are constantly sitting with him and pulling him in all directions to get his attention. They love their other uncle equally. He is also sweet. I wonder what his answer to the James Lipton question would be.

My answer is that I can develop a good rapport with anyone. There have been very few people in my life with whom I haven't been able to get along. My brother, who isn't quick to dish out compliments, says he admires this about me, my sense of tact and diplomacy. He says that not only do I get along with nearly everyone, but I "grease the wheels" to help others get along. If I may be allowed a moment of patting myself on the back, I will say that I like this about myself. It's a trait that's served me well, and it gives me a sense of accomplishment when I win someone over or see others put aside their differences to work together toward a common goal.

I think this is a great question. To ask it of yourself motivates you to come up with a strength you may not have previously thought much about. To ask it of others gives you insight into how they see themselves.