Can I Ask You A Question?

Every week I head to the Mall of America for my Apple (computer) training. Even though we live only live a few miles from this largest-in-the-U.S.-mall, it's not where I usually shop (too big!). But with the Apple store there, I'm now a "regular."

Throughout the mall are kiosks where sometimes aggressive salespeople are trying to push their product. The past few weeks I've noticed they all start with the same line: "Can I ask you a question?" I usually smile and say "no" and keep walking. And they keep talking. One guy (who was selling hair care products) said to me: Have you considered getting rid of your curly hair? Since I've finally gotten to the point where I LIKE my curly hair (after years of hating it), this approach didn't sit well with me! Someone today was a bit better: "You have beautiful hair, but have you ever considered..." (I kept walking).

Let's face it... we all know their: "Can I ask you a question?" line is just that... an opening line that allows them to pounce and push their product. They're not really interested in conversation with me!

But this makes me think... how often do I launch a "line" with no desire for conversation? How often do I say: "How are you?" when I really don't want to know?

Too often Christians are perceived like the kiosk salespeople, for good reason. We're pushing our product, and forgetting about the person. Problem is, we have the best thing in the world to give away... but sometimes our methods leave something to be desired.

Maybe some week in the future, when one of those kiosk people say: "Can I Ask You A Question?" I should stop and say "Sure, as long as I can ask you one back!" Maybe I'll start a conversation that will go beyond hair care. Maybe I'll find out something about them... and when I ask, I'll really want to know.