The other day, I was on a crowded bus for an intercity commute, and was sat beside someone who was reading. So I got my book out and started reading as well. At the end of the trip I asked her what she was reading and what it was about, and added the associated series to my reading list. I also told her about my book. We parted ways and it made my day a little brighter. Does anyone have any similar stories of brief good encounters with other people?
I’ve always disliked smalltalk and never felt comfortable with it, but nowadays, and I don’t know if it’s age or isolation… nowadays I quite enjoy exchanging a few pleasantries with someone as we meet in a staircase or hallway. Just some words about the weather or encouragement for climbing the stairs or sympathy about heavy looking bags - mostly on the boring side but edging on quippy, followed by polite chuckles… it makes whatever made me go outside a little better.
It’s still slightly uncomfortable before deciding what to comment on today, and getting that neutral-positive response, but I like it nonetheless. Feels like a routine even though I do it with different people each time. Makes me feel more at home out there.