It doesn't take much to start the conversation it seems. A simple "HMMM!" in the produce department at my local grocery will start a conversation with someone I didn't even know was there.
I love that friendly, connected feeling with those around me. There is nothing personal or even a commitment of time or space. Just simple lovely words that makes both the sayer and the listener happy.
Are you hungry for conversation? Who did you talk to today?
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Making polite, friendly conversation with those around you is one of the easiest ways to restore faith in humanity and to brighten your day. It is too easy to get caught up in the negativity of all the depressing political news of the day. I went with my husband to his doctors appointment yesterday and very easily fell into a friendly conversation with the medical assistant checking us in. Just made me smile :-)
ReplyDeleteMe too!
DeleteSo true -- as the news gets worse and the world seems crazier - connecting with each other in small, friendly ways like this helps restore a feeling of normalcy! In the past week I've had random, friendly conversations with the tech at my eye doctor, the cashier at the grocery, several neighbors during my morning walks and visitors to the community garden where I work. Taking a moment to share a word and/or a smile is a beautiful way to give of ourselves.
ReplyDeleteAbsolutely! The minute it takes does not mean we still can't brag about "how busy we are".
DeleteYesterday, I went to see Malala Yousefzai speak. I chatted with the security people, and the ushers, and the person in the seat next to me. I always chat with the cashiers and baggers at the grocery. I'm on a first name basis with the mail carrier.
ReplyDeleteIn fact, chatting with the mail carrier saved a life last week. She mentioned that newspapers were piling up on a neighbor's porch. Knowing the neighbor was in poor health, we called the police for a welfare check. They ended up breaking into the house and finding her collapsed on the floor--very dehydrated but still alive. If the mail carrier hadn't noticed and mentioned the papers, I'm sure we would have been too late to save the neighbor's life.
On another point, also loved your post about the pocket library. We have three within easy walking distance from my house--I use them all the time! Wish I lived in your neighborhood. I would certainly stop by!
Malala Yousefzai? Wow! I need to pay closer attention to what is going on in Portland!
DeleteI had a friend that moved from the metro Portland to rural eastern Oregon. She would complain about how long it took her to get groceries. "Everyone wants to visit and I want to go home," she would say. I couldn't understand what she was talking about. I love that slow country way of doing things.
Be well Galen.
I always try to attempt small talk, joke or give a smile. In checkout lines, restaurants and even the hardware store. It's a good way to lighten people up. It could make the difference in someone's day.
ReplyDeleteLaurie, a kind word can make another's day. It will become a habit. A simple how are you? can be turned around to the other person and become the beginning of something wonderful
DeleteWe are visiting an area on vacation, and it's easy to start conversations when we are in places like wineries and brewpubs. But, everyday life back where we live it is a lot harder. I see a lot of lonely people where I live, in an area that has a large senior population - and I dread becoming one of them.
ReplyDeleteWell the ball is in your court...visit for a minute with the seniors and Karma will keep you safe (I am told.)
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