Originally Posted by valinors_sorrow
If you like, you can borrow my trick. I have a "Nod List" for people who are so awful, so sick that to say good morning to them means the game is on. I nod to acknowledge their presence and that is all, ever. I never speak another word to them nor do I discuss them with others (except to mention that they're on my "Nod List" and that's all they're ever getting out of me). If others attempt to talk about them I diplomatically ditch the conversation or if I am stuck, I stick my fingers in my ears and sing (badly of course LOL) la la la la la I can't hear you until they get the point. It is possible to close a topic entirely and I am grateful I know how. It takes what it takes sometimes, ya know?