Apr 142005
Go Ahead…Make My Day
Go Ahead…Make My Day
I’ve taken to smiling and giving a simple wave to fellow joggers out in Hudson River Park on Manhattan’s lower west side, especially at off times like early mornings and late nights. Call it the fellowship of the urban exerciser, blame it on the endorphines, whatever. I’ve also noticed that very few people respond, even when they clearly notice. So I tried a little experiment this morning and kept a running count (yes, pun intended).
Of the roughly 30 people I passed this morning, I’d say 15 made no acknowledgment whatsoever of my friendliness, although they clearly noticed it. Another 7 gave me a weird look like I was nuts (perhaps not wholly incorrect). 5 were "in the zone" and legitimately didn’t notice. A mere 2 smiled or waved back. But the best was the very last person I passed towards the end of my run, who I ended up standing next to for a minute while I was stretching/cooling down.
Her comment: "It’s so nice to know that there are some people who are friendly to strangers here in New York. Thanks for making my day." Go ahead — be 10% more friendly or smiley today. See what effect it has on people around you. Make someone’s day!
Before I dive into my morning workload (first on the list of to dos is finish an article on “All things twinkie” in celebration of twinkie’s 75th anniversary–should be fun to write) I thought I’d do a quick check of recently updated blogs and so came upon yours. Enjoyed your post–a good thought with which to start the day!
I honestly have to agree with you, but the effect isn’t limited to big-city New York. Just north of the border, up here in small-town Kingston (Ontario, Canada), I try to smile and say ‘Good morning’ at everyone I meet when I’m rollerblading in to work. Like you said, I meet surprised looks, grumpy looks, people ignoring me, all of that. But for the one or two who are genuinely pleased, it’s completely worth it.
OnlyOnce: Go Ahead…Make My Day
Link: OnlyOnce: Go Ahead…Make My Day. After his fascination with the word
Bravo! I grew up in a small town and continually get funny looks in Manhattan for greeting people in hallways or on the street. I have never kept a count though. Thanks for the nice perspective with which to start the day!
Wonderful Matt! You are sharing your aloha, something we all need to do so much more of.
Rosa