TALK TO STRANGERS

Having the mindset of "go go go" without taking the time to notice the people, places, and things you're passing by has become commonplace. We live in a preoccupied state of mind, or at least that's what I've noticed. More often than not, we go about our days living in our own little world. We think about what we have to get done before the day is out, rarely pausing to enjoy the moment and be present. I'm not exempt from this, and I'm working on it. Working on letting myself just be, and really paying attention to how I interact with the world around me.

Each day there are so many missed connections. Maybe because we're too caught up in our own head, or maybe it's because we don't know any other way to be. But if we're more mindful, then we can begin to change how we usually behave. Smile at people you pass on the street. Ask the cashier how their day is going. Give somebody a genuine compliment.

Ask someone, something. Tell someone, something. Anything.

I can recall numerous times that I've felt like talking to someone, a stranger. Whether it be letting them know their dog is cute, telling them I like their outfit, or simply noticing something and wanting to strike up a conversation- but I held back. Why? Hell if I know, but it was probably because I was overthinking things, and making excuses as to why I shouldn't talk to another human being (sounds silly, doesn't it?).

But you know what the best part is? Once the words escape your mouth, you realize how a seemingly insignificant conversation can bring out smiles and laughter in a stranger, and suddenly, they're no longer a stranger. A connection has formed.

The other day I shared the chairlift with an older gentleman. We were both skiing solo that day and happened to find ourselves in line together at the bottom of the lift. We chatted the entire way up, and waited for one another after each run so we could sit together and carry on our conversation. My mood was instantly elevated, and stayed that way for the rest of the night. It was his gesture of kindness that turned my solitary day into a sociable one, and I'm grateful for his thoughtfulness and kind spirit.

Fulfilled. That's how I feel when I connect with someone, anyone. Even a "hello" in passing makes me feel more tightly woven with the people I share this earth with. You might not always kick start the conversation, but whoever does acts as a gentle reminder to be present with yourself and the people around you. We have to put in a conscious effort to lift up our heads and notice the people around us. Never doubt the effect of a conversation, it has an unwavering strength that tries to pull us all together.