The Development by THE_BELLY

Yesterday, I began my regular walk home, after college as I do every day at around 3pm. But I don't know, this day felt different. On this trip, I saw an elderly lady waiting for a bus, and inevitably we awkwardly made eye contact. In most scenarios, I would look down, and hastily walk past as I self consciously brush my clothes down, make sure I'm not breathing too heavily and that my music isn't too loud. But this time for once, instead of being stereotypically British and looking away, I smiled. And thankfully she responded with another smile. It was an incredibly simple gesture, but it was very sweet.

I then decided to go one further than this and give her a greeting. I - being the unfortunate human that I am - forgot what time of day it was. With a silly nod, some feigned enthusiasm, and a huge grin on my face, said "Morning!". OH THE EMBARASSMENT! IT WAS 3PM FOR GOODNESS SAKE! Thankfully, I had already walked past the sweet little old lady, so I couldn't see her reaction to my unusual remark, which allowed me to begin my regular 'must-return-to-the-safety-of-my-dark-cave' rushed, walk home.

What did I learn from this slightly odd experience?

That a smile can actually be a really nice thing to do. They say that even a smile is charity. And I see where it comes from. Sometimes all it takes to make someone's day a little bit better is a smile. It puts a little bit of faith back into humanity. Well, it did for me... Maybe not all people of the older generation hate my teenage guts. But I may have still managed to alienate the poor woman with my lack of time keeping skills.

However, I did also learn that I need to pick up some short, snappy greetings to give to people - no matter the time of day!

Any suggestions?