The Responsibilities of Nice
In March I decided to try "nice".
For almost three years, I had come into my office complex, flashed my access badge to the security guards and trundled up to my floor. Maybe a nod, maybe a hello, but no real personal connection between me and the guards. Nothing mean, nothing nasty, pleasant enough even. Just not nice.
Beginning on March 1 I introduced myself to the guards. "Hi, I've walked by you for the last 30 months and I don't know your name or anything about you. My name is Brent". In that manner, I met Steven, Charles, Jody and Martin and now every time I see them, we exchange more than just a hello. Sure, we probably talk about the weather or "hey, its Friday!" but that's something.
A small step, but a nice one.
Except when it isn't. Sometimes, I just don't want to talk to anyone (especially before coffee). But now, commitments exist (explicit or implied): I must exchange pleasantries with Steven, Charles, Jody or Martin. Not that I would be mean, not that I would be nasty. Just non-communicative. And that is the Responsibility of Nice: making or maintaining a connection, no matter how superficial, even when I'd rather do something else.
Posted at 08:13AM Apr 02, 2010 by schnee in General |
