Strangers.

Remember, as a kid, being taught by your parents not to talk to strangers? I think we pretty much carry that lesson with us thru life, don't we? Unless, that is, we are conducting a transaction of some sort, need directions (men excluded, haha), or perhaps to apologize (ie: run into someone), or to thank someone (holding a door open, etc). Generally speaking, in my experience (which could be biased), people don't really talk much in places like elevators, crossing the street, passing by in a building or sidewalk (other than saying hi maybe), waiting in line (unless to gripe)... or really waiting anywhere (at a restaurant, Dr. office, post office... need I go on?). We might make small talk if forced to be next to someone else, say on an airplane, etc. My point is that it's rare that two random strangers talk... and if they do it's minimal. I don't know if maybe we should more... what do you think??

ANYway... the point of this blog is that there are a few odd birds in the world that step across the little line... that little social norm of not talking to strangers. I encountered one of those today. Yes, on my lunch break. I ordered my food. Figured it's a beautiful day, why not sit outside and get some sun?! Perfect. There was about 3 open tables, score! I proceeded to eat my food when a man came out. He was probably in his mid-thirties, water delivery guy, kinda dorky looking, not my type @ all by any stretch of the imagination... plus he was white (go figure, lol). So yea... he comes out and says how beautiful the day is and I replied yes, it is gorgeous (thinking he was just saying hello in passing). THEN, he asks if he could sit down. I didn't know what to say so I said yes. He continues to talk as I scarf my food down. Compliments me on my dress and my hair. The entire time I'm sitting there praying he doesn't ask for my number. After about 15 minutes I told him I had to get back to work and for him to enjoy his day and God bless. Then we both parted ways. God answered my prayer because he didn't ask me out or anything. I'm pretty sure he knew I wasn't interested tho... plus I saw him looking @ the ring I wear on my left finger. The whole interaction was so peculiar.

So... for any of you who actually read my blogs, I'd like to take a poll and get some opinions on the matter. Have we become creatures of anti-social habit when it comes to talking to strangers? Do you think people should talk with one another more? Would you approach someone and decide to have a full on conversation w/ them knowing you'll probably never see them again (other than @ a bar, lol)?? I serve in a ministry where my job is to talk to people who seem alone and make them feel welcome and loved. That's slightly different though... since they obviously came to a church gathering for a reason and to hopefully meet people and to hopefully come back and get connected ;) I'm just curious to see what other people think on this oh so intriguing topic!