Hello Walk

Photo by me

At the university where I work, we have a section of sidewalk in front of the fine arts center called the "Hello Walk."  There are plaques set into the sidewalk to remind people that this is a section to be friendly, to say "Hello" to those who pass by. I'm always intrigued, walking that stretch of sidewalk, to see who actually says hello, and who avoids eye contact. I realize cognitively that I look to the students like a rather rotund middle-aged woman, despite the fact that the eyes looking out at them haven't yet emotionally adjusted to the reality that I no longer look like a young adult. So I'm always glad when someone gives me a bit of eye contact, a "Hello" and a smile.

Today is "World Hello Day."  The idea today is for you to celebrate by greeting ten people. According to the website, "this demonstrates the importance of interpersonal communication for preserving peace." It won't bring peace on earth if you greet ten people today, but as one who has experienced the effects of our "Hello Walk," I can tell you that it will lift your spirits, and the spirits of those you greet. So...

Hello!