Southern Comfort

Let me begin by saying this: Before coming down south to college, I had never waved at anyone that I didn't know. Ever. My classic move was to see someone coming, then look down at my feet or off into the distance until they had passed. There was no need for eye contact, no need for acknowledgement of their presence, and definitely no need to speak. It was polite to keep to yourself, and that is how I liked it.

News flash, they don't feel the same way down here. EVERYONE waves to you. It doesn't matter if it's the brisk jogger, the friendly neighbor chatting in their yard, the elderly gent passing in his car, or the kids playing outside, they will all wave. And it's not just a wave, it's usually a smile and eye contact.

Honestly, this threw me at first. I was so used to living inside my own bubble that it was super uncomfortable to have strangers waving at me. In my heart of hearts, I felt that it was rude of them. Yes, yes. I thought that waving was rude, because to me, it was more polite to leave someone alone.

I can now tell you that four years later, I have adopted this same 'rude' habit. And I will let you know that is quite freeing to walk down the street and smile at the people passing you. Back home, I was afraid to look at people or acknowledge, because it was unacceptable. But here, I look forward to the waves and smiles of complete strangers. There is something comforting about a smile and a wave that says, 'I don't know you, but I hope you have a nice day. Also, I'm not trying to kidnap you. I'm just southern.'

So here's to the South. I think I'll stick around for a while....