Talking Time

Alright friends, lets talk... No, I don't mean carry on a conversation in the comments, I mean lets talk.

As I walk through a store to buy much needed items (like Pringles and Pop-Tarts), I'll occasionally come across another shopper.

Whoa! I remark. Another human being!

So I smile at them. Wouldn't they do the same?

No. No they wouldn't.

And I'm not complaining (...Okay, maybe I am.). Honestly, it's a person's own right to keep to themselves if they so desire. But where's the fun in that?

We live in a world where people are offended by the drop of a pen. And people worry they might say something dumb and embarrass themselves.

Let me tell ya, it's even more awkward when you pretend not to notice.

Yes, we see you carefully swerve into that aisle to dodge an awkward situation. We see you staring at the floor so no one will make eye contact with you.

And it hurts.

Do they not like us? Are we looking particularly ugly today that no one wants to acknowledge us?
Are they just a freaky hermit who hates people? Just some of the many thoughts I'm sure don't just cross my mind.

And I'm sure, unless you really are just a hermit who hates people, you've felt the same things on your better days.

I think we should be more open to saying a simple "Hello". Be more respectful of others. Humans aren't meant to be alone. Even the most private introvert needs some quality people time.

If you can't talk, a simple smile will do. Maybe your sick, or maybe you don't want to get close to people. Smiling is a sure fire way to cheer you up.

And for once, I think we can agree that we'll all be happier with the results.

(Disclaimer: If you are a particularly unfriendly person who can't even smile at a baby or a puppy dog, then I'm afraid even I can't help you)