The moment

Rohan works with Amara at a design studio in Singapore. Today he can't focus, because his mother in Mumbai hasn't answered her phone since yesterday. Amara notices, asks, and helps him find a next step. Listen for how she stays calm without telling him not to worry.

The conversation

RohanAmara
  1. Rohan
  2. Amara
  3. Rohan
  4. Amara
  5. Rohan
  6. Amara
  7. Rohan
  8. Amara
  9. Rohan
  10. Amara
  11. Rohan
  12. Amara

Words to know

you can't focus because you're thinking about something else

a worried question about something bad that might happen

a friendly suggestion

nothing more; it was only that

a warm reply to "thank you"; happy to help again

Check yourself

1Why is Rohan worried?
2How does Amara help?
3What does Amara mean by "Maybe buy her a new phone, though"?

Practice · 4 min

Round one: repeat every line. Round two: mute Amara and say her lines in the gap, slowly and calmly; that's what makes them comforting. Round three: mute Rohan. Then say "You seem worried. What's on your mind?" three times, each time a little softer.

  1. RohanSorry, I'm a bit distracted today.
  2. AmaraYou seem worried. What's on your mind?
  3. RohanMy mom isn't answering her phone. Since yesterday.
  4. AmaraOh, Rohan. Anyone would be worried.
  5. RohanShe lives alone in Mumbai. What if she fell?
  6. AmaraLet's think about it together. Does she have neighbors?
  7. RohanMrs. Patel, next door. I have her number.
  8. AmaraWhy don't you call her now? I'll wait here.
  9. RohanShe's fine. Her phone broke, that's all.
  10. AmaraWhat a relief. How do you feel?
  11. RohanMuch better. Thanks for staying with me.
  12. AmaraAnytime. Maybe buy her a new phone, though.

Say it today

Use it once in a real conversation before tomorrow. Out loud counts, even to yourself.