The Editor,
Would it hurt to nod, smile, or say hello?
We now can enjoy sunshine and gentle evening walks throughout Richmond parks, dykes, and neighbourhood sidewalks. With no need for protective umbrellas or downward stares to avoid the drips and puddles, we have perfect opportunities to connect with "strangers" along our way.
We may wave briefly, our eyes meeting. We may nod, smile, greet, or share a comment.
Or, we remain absorbed by our electronics, engaged in a private conversation; avert our gaze, or mutely stare at nothing in particular.
Recent and unprecedented investment, growth, and immigration continue to impact every level of the Richmond community, including connections between strangers. The insularity of personal electronic devices, the chill of perceived "stranger danger," and increased daily stressors can further weaken our fabric of social cohesion.
Regardless of the reasons, I am tired and fed-up with antisocial walkers. I feel sad, frustrated, angry, and worried for our community.
This is not an issue of superficial politeness. Given the reality that we are briefly sharing the same path, why not offer at a civil, if not friendly, salutation? Heck, cyclists and joggers can join in as well!
As the Vancouver Foundation's recent research emphasizes, when we feel we belong in our community and trust our neighbours, we feel safer and happier. So do our kids. We need each other.
Would it hurt to smile, nod, or greet a passing stranger? Maybe a little.
Would it help? Maybe a lot.
Jo Anne Gray Richmond
