In Parting

Not how one soul comes close to another but how it moves away shows me their kinship and how much they belong together.
- Neitzsche

...more drunken musings...

I can understand people who feign interest when one chatters on about things that are insignificant to them. I can even understand when they don't.

I can also understand the kind of distant politeness that we observe with strangers and acquaintances. In fact, I think this to be of a good character.

However, there is one thing I can't stand - those who are friendly in certain social interactions, are indifferent, even impolite, when outside of those environments.
These statements hold to a particular scenario. It is the simple act of smiling once encountering someone with whom you have a professional, or otherwise formal or otherwise relationship with. They don't have to be your friend, but can be someone that you recognize, and knowing that they recognize you as well.

It is very simple. When you pass by some acquaintance, smile. That's all. Just smile. You don't have to talk - not even a friendly hello, nor do you even need to break a step. But at the very least acknowledge their presence. I understand that you might be having a horrible day, or really truly do not like this person. Perhaps they annoy you, or pester you on occasion. But really, is a smile too much to ask? Even better, if not a smile how about a nod. The object is simply recognition of that person's existence, acknowledgment of their presence.

The offense that is caused when one does otherwise might have negative effects that you have yet to realize. Not only that, it can be hurtful for the person whose presence is being ignored.

I am sure that all of us have experienced this at one time or another. Furthermore, I am sure that perhaps we have all done the same. Yet I believe it is not only juvenile, and of bad character, but ultimately, it might come back to haunt you. In one's life, while not long, we encounter others. These others might just show up in our future, and hence all of our words and actions will be remembered. Hence, I suppose the moral of the story is, be kind to others, acknowledge their existence (whether you wished they existed or not) and continue on your way. This is not only exemplary of good character, but of a good soul. I truly believe the arrogant will get their due - and will likely know why when it happens, only too late to reverse the animosity they caused.