Jesus was able to witness informally to a Samaritan woman because he started a conversation with her. How can we improve our skills at starting conversations with strangers?

• Be friendly and speak to people. Although tired, Jesus started his conversation by simply asking for a drink. So you can begin with a warm greeting and then perhaps comment on the weather or a current event. Remember, the initial goal is just to start a conversation, so talk about any subject that might be of interest to the person. If he or she does not respond, nothing is lost. Try again with someone else. Ask Jehovah for courage.—Ne 2:4; Ac 4:29.

• Be alert for an opportunity to introduce the good news, but do not be in a hurry. Allow the conversation to develop naturally. If you force matters, the person may become uneasy and stop conversing. Do not be disappointed if the conversation ends before you can give a witness. If the idea of trying to introduce the good news intimidates you, practice starting conversations without the goal of giving a witness. [Play and discuss video 1.]

• Try creating an opportunity for a witness by making a heartfelt statement about your faith that might prompt the listener to ask for an explanation. Jesus made intriguing statements that moved the woman to ask questions. When he eventually introduced the good news, he was merely answering her questions.

[Play and discuss video 2, and then play and discuss video 3.]

Starting a conversation is much like playing a game of catch. Both require at least two participants and are relatively easy to initiate. At your next opportunity, “toss” someone your words, and see if you can start a conversation.

Our Meetings and Ministry – Starting Conversations—Video 1

Excuse me, lady, can I sit here?
Sure!
What a beautiful day today. I really like this park so quiet.

What a beautiful day today!
It’s true! Today, you’re just fine.
I really like this park, it’s so peaceful.
Yes, indeed. I’ve been coming here since I was my daughter’s age. They often took me there, my parents.
Is it nice, and has the park changed a lot since the hour?
Not much. The trees and bushes are larger, and that driveway has been added for walking.
You know, I’ve been coming here for about a year. We moved to the area, shortly after my husband retired.

And where did you live before?
On the other side, of the city.
I do not go often, in those parts. Is there a nice park to walk around?
Yes, but it’s not as nice as this. I too often took my children when they were young.
Ah! How many children do you have?
We have two males, and one female.
It must have been difficult. I have only one daughter, and it’s really challenging. Sometimes I wonder if I can grow it well, but maybe you learn with time.
Look, my husband and I, we followed some advice, which in our case have always worked. Can I show you?

Our Meetings and Ministry – Starting Conversations—Video 2

I think today the doctor is a bit late with visits.
Already! I had an appointment 20 minutes ago, and he has not called me yet.
Anyway, I have to say, that I’m fine with this doctor. It’s not hurried when you visit. Maybe that’s why it’s late, because it takes all the time it takes to visit patients.
But it will be like that, but my arthritis is making itself felt today. I just wish it was hurried, so I can go home.

Eh, I understand it perfectly, I’ve had arthritis for a long time.
The Watchtower  |  No. 1 2019
Everyone is subject to sickness and death today, but that will not be the case much longer. God will soon apply the benefits of Jesus’ ransom sacrifice so that “everyone exercising faith in him might not be destroyed but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16) What will be the result?
Sickness will be eradicated. “No resident will say: ‘I am sick.’ The people dwelling in the land will be pardoned for their error.”—Isaiah 33:24.
THE WATCHTOWER No. 3 2018 | Does God Care About You?
God Will Soon End All Suffering 

Our Meetings and Ministry – Starting Conversations—Video 3

I understand it, perfectly. I too have been arthritis for a long time. I can not wait for the moment to come, when no one will have arthritis any more, or any other illness. You know, the day will come, when no one will get sick anymore.
What do you mean! Do you think doctors will find the cure for arthritis?
No! Honestly, I do not think doctors will ever succeed. But did he know that God promised to eliminate diseases?
I had none, never heard of it.
Look, I’ll show you.