Small talk

Hey, how is it going?
That is probably the most used phrase in America as people walk by one another. Instead of saying hello, people ask how are you. It is the kind of phrase that does not require an answer. Often the questioner has bypassed the questionee before the answer is even given. If by chance the person stands around look enough to hear "fine" then a glazed look appears in the eyes. There are a lot of words spoken today that are basically meaningless. Conversation has become an artform. There are those that can perform and others who cannot. I am one of the non-performers. I find it hard to small talk. I admire those who can smooze throughout life. Once I get past hello and how are you, I am speechless.
I know this is probably not right, but I cannot small talk when I want to ask you another question. Some people will ask you several other questions before asking you what they really wanted to know. Perhaps this is their way of getting your guard down and then you will be forced to do their bidding.
It seems like the nicer a person is when he or she comes up to you, the more the favor requires of you. It is true that people do respond better to someone who is nice. Everybody wants to keep a person happy.
One thing I find strange is when people are telling a story, usually involving a point they are trying to make, their faces are neutral. Yet, when they make their point, BOOM! They smile. It is kind of unnerving, to me anyway.
Another thing is the "I'm sorry." Yes, it is a good thing to admit when one is wrong. I sometimes get tired of people saying it. A person may bump you or not do something right then and say "I'm sorry." Now I have to listen to you go on and waste more of my time. I admit I sometimes use that catch phrase when the fly ball comes my way.
Granted these things get to me more when I feel that I am in a hurry. Politeness is an important part in our society. There is a delicate balance. Too much and you are considered a pushover or have a hidden agenda. Not enough and you are considered a jerk.
Remember play fair. Or a good rule to remember is keep it 50/50. Unless of course it is your boss, then suck up as much as you want.
Alright, you caught me. I'm sorry. How are you doing?