I want more.

In a world often dominated by surface-level conversations, the true power of conversation lies in its potential to foster depth. Whether sitting at the dinner table, in a social setting, or my favorite place to spark a conversation—a bar—I seek depth. When we move beyond casual exchanges and engage in meaningful dialogue, we unlock layers of understanding that can transform our relationships and ourselves.

I continue to learn that depth in conversation invites reflection, vulnerability, and connection—all of which are necessary for growth. In these profound moments of dialogue, I encounter new perspectives, possible challenges to my beliefs, and the opportunity to gain the insight needed to evolve, shaping my inner world and how I engage with those around me. 

I scribble these thoughts to make sense of and explore my longing for deeper discussions because they allow me to be self-aware and connect with others on a meaningful level.  In these moments of vulnerability, I delight in tapping into the whole person, exploring the complexities, fears, and aspirations that often remain hidden in everyday cursory conversation.  These brief exchanges lack depth and are done quickly with no attention to detail or care of the person in front of you.  I recognize a time and place for them, such as social situations or buffering personal energy, as not everyone may have the emotional or mental energy for depth.   And the boundaries of others who are not interested in deep engagement and personal boundaries must be respected. 

Even though cursory conversations serve a purpose, I still want to know someone’s story.  Beneath the small talk, I am always drawn to the deeper layers – what drives them, what they’ve experienced, and how they see the world. I believe genuine connection is formed in these personal stories, and understanding of one another takes root.

In addition, by diving into one another’s stories, I realized that we are all trying to make sense of life – its chaos, beauty, and uncertainty.  By engaging in these conversations, we grow individually and collectively, creating a space to live more authentically and with greater purpose.  I hope those around me don’t get bothered by my desire to go deeper, but I believe true connection comes when we embrace these meaningful exchanges.

Ultimately, I believe we find the most meaning through these deeper conversations, both in ourselves and in the shared human experience. For me, depth in dialogue will always be a catalyst for growth and a desire for more.