Civility every day

The experience we enjoy traveling along the way in our daily lives is, to a large extent, determined by our approach.  What we receive from the world in which we live, love, work, and play is definitely based on that which we are willing to give to it.  Stated in various forms in multiple religions, as well as numerous other sources, we should strive to treat others as we would want to be treated.  When we give of civility, if not genuine friendliness, we receive unmeasured but invaluable rewards in return.  Just pause for a moment and reflect on recent encounters as verification.

Today began as usual, heading out for my morning run.  During the ensuing hour, coming upon my fellow pedestrian citizens, as they headed to the trolley station, work at the hospital, the coffee shop or wherever in the early morning hours, I greeted each with, "Good morning."  Most replied, some did not.  Those that did invariably also smiled.  When approaching a crosswalk and a car stopped to permit my passage, I turned, raised a hand, make eye contact, and mouthed, "Thank You."  Normally, I receive a nod of acknowledgment, as I did today.

Each of our fellow travelers are thinking about the beginning of another work week.  Some looking forward to it, other bemoaning it.  Some may be heading to school or another appointment.  But each is thinking about their world and the beginning of the day.  Problems, concerns, joy, family matters, excitement, whatever.  A small expression of civility from a stranger probably isn't what they anticipate and it costs nothing to provide.

Small acts such as these mean more than we can sometimes realize.  Who knows which of us was uplifted by the kind word and civility of a passerby.  With the speed at which our lives seem to move, many days are mere blurs.  During these frenetic, bustling times, having another slow down to act civilly might actually be surprising.

So, I advocate you surprise someone today.  An act of civility every day will generate responses that bring forth smiles.  And that is a pretty damned good way to go about the day.