How I did it: An example of the best kind of moments that can come from this:

I was standing in the check-out line of the local grocery store when I overheard the young woman standing behind me (on her cell phone) mention that she was buying a RockStar energy drink for the person with whom she'd been speaking.  Once her call had concluded, I smiled and said, "That's an interesting idea... Buying a rock star.  If you could buy one, who would it be?"  She (a late-teens/early-20-something) surprised me by answering enthusiastically and without hesitation:  "Steven Tyler!" (of Aerosmith). My choice was Robin Zander (of Cheap Trick).  At that point the game was on; other people in line chimed in and joined in the fun!

Lessons & tips: Smile, keep it light-hearted and pretend that you're conspiring on the side of fun and laughter!

---

Sep 16, 2008, 03:25AM PDT | 0 comments | 4 cheers