It's worth saying hello

Today I made a trip to Jerrys Arts supply. It's a local art store not too far from my home. I purchased a few watercoloring supplies and went back into my car. I already had a small inexpensive set or water colors but have been taking it a bit more serious. After going back to my car I saw Cold Stone. And the weather today has been beyond great this week. WHY NOT! I stepped back out of my car and took a trip over to Cold Stone. The person behind the counter seemed really frustrated so I tread lightly. I asked for a few sample of flavors. Oreo filling, sweet cream, and another that I can't quite remember at the moment. 😬 I made my choice- Oreo filling with a fudge brownie in a waffle cup. I watched as this guy behind the counter made my ice cream. He didn't make eye contact at all. I'd been at this Cold Stone location before. I decided to strike up a conversation.  "Are you in college?" His face brightened up a little, then I asked, " how long have you been working here?"The common answer, "too long." I could tell by his face that it had been a long day and he was drained. I learned that he was a bio major, going into med school. He was interested in pediatrics and decided to go with something in blood transfusions. After our little talk his face brighten up. And as new customers came in he said hello. Something that I didn't get when I walked in. (It's ok though). Too often we get consumed with the thoughts in our heads. When it's a negative thought it goes in a negative cycle increasing our frustration and annoyance with the situation or circumstances we are in. I write all this to say- stop and say hello. Put the phone away- mine died and I didn't have a charger with me. I probably wouldn't have noticed that the guy behind the counter wasn't giving eye contact if my phone hadn't died. By no means am I saying I'm perfect - in fact it's something I struggle with. Next time you are out I'd like to challenge you to stop and say hello, engage in a conversation.