Something weird has been happening over the past few years, I think people are getting less friendly. ...or maybe I’m getting more creepy. I think it’s the former, not the latter.
In our fear driven world, I sort of understand all this...and maybe that’s what sucks most. I understand. And I don’t want to understand.
Since forever, moms and dads tell their kids not to talk to strangers. I’ve even told my kids what to do when/if someone offers them candy or a ride or that they know me...run as fast as you can to an adult you know. So yes, I’m guilty of throwing down the terror threat to my kids. Even though, most strangers I’ve met in my life haven’t tried to do inappropriate things. Now, when I’m in a store or a baseball game and I see kids I usually smile and try to make them laugh. Unless the mother is around. I’ve gotten some frightful stares and some not so friendly, “Can I help you sir?” “Sir?” Whose she talking to?
Is that the way it’s going to be? I’m afraid most would rather consider me creepy...it’s just safer that way.
What happened to me at a gas station recently with a Harley rider, just bummed me out. I pull in to fill up, and this burly graying man was strapping on his helmet as I smiled and said, “Great day for a ride.” He looked at me and said nothing. “Really awesome to go for a ride today I bet,” I gave it one more shot. “Ummm, yea,” is all he could utter just before he pulled away. It could be he just isn’t a nice person. Could be he was shocked anybody would act kindly. Could be he didn’t hear me all that well. Whatever the case, it seems to me when someone smiles and offers a nicety it might be okay to acknowledge it fittingly. He seemed creeped out. I masked my sad face.
I am still willing to be outgoing and friendly toward people. People I know. People I don’t know. I don’t want to slip into the rut of figuring someone who’s being nice either wants something or is eerie. I know we can’t live pretending a stranger is a long-awaited friend, but if we can’t take a second to give a nod of the head or a mini wave or a crack of a smile... Kids do it because it's natural. We have to learn to when to shun up and when to shun down.
I think I’m getting shunburn. I’m afraid we’re all gonna shack ourselves up and read blogs all day.
The world is scary and not fair, but it’s also awesome and wonderful and hope-filled. Smile on purpose.