The other day, I was sitting at my son's baseball game. Another mother came along. I looked at her and she looked at me. While she didn't say anything either, I think she would have been receptive to me saying "hi." I said nothing. I knew instantly that I could have done better.
This year, I don't know any of the other baseball parents. There have been other seasons when I've looked forward to sitting and chatting with people during games. This year, I sit alone or with my husband if he's not helping out. I don't mind that. I enjoy good conversation but small talk tires me. Sitting quietly and watching the games is fine. I don't know this woman to whom I didn't say "hi" and, as it's late in the season, I probably won't get to know her. Still, a simple greeting wouldn't have hurt.
I know the quote "When in doubt, do the friendliest thing." (I can't find who came up with the quote to give them credit.) I would like to live by it and it guides me sometimes. Being somewhat shy, it's not always the easiest thing to take a chance and be friendly. I think it's worthwhile, though. We don't know what other people are feeling. People can be going through lots of things and appearances can be very misleading. A friendly greeting can help, if only a little bit.
If the rain holds off and I see that woman at the game this evening, maybe I will get a chance to say "hi.". I don't make any promises. I use the quote as a guideline and, if anyone tries to engage me in silly small talk, I can't guarantee I won't growl at them. I still have some work to do on my friendliness, I suppose.
JAHD
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