Nice to meet you

I had an epiphany today, it has always been really hard for me to learn other people's names. For years I just thought I was cursed with a poor memory and I felt so bad because I'm that person that is always like "Hey you, it's so great to see you." All the while wiling my brain to remember their name.

But today it hit me, I know why I can't remember any one's name. Here is how a conversation would go the first time I meet someone.

"Hi I am Joe."

"Hi Joe, I'm Meikel."

"Miguel?"

"No, M-e-i-k-e-l."

"Oh sorry, Mickell?"

"That's OK, it's like the month M-a-ykel."

"Oh, Nice to meet you May."

"No it's actually one word, Meikel (insert some joke about how my parents must have hated me)

"Oh well, good to meet you."

"Yeah, great to meet you too . . ."

And by the time this oratorical circus is over I have no idea what this person's name is. From now on I am going to write their name down first, and then pull up a chair for them and walk them slowly though the pronunciation. At least now I know the root of my problem, and knowing is half the battle.

I promise, no more posts about my name.