"Complete strangers can stand silent next to each other in an elevator and not even look each other in the eye. But at a concert, those same strangers could find themselves dancing and singing together like best friends." ~ LZ Granderson

It sure feels good, I think, when we break through that sense of "strangerness" with a fellow human being and relate as fellow human beings. When it happens for me, it's like a new day dawning.

A few weeks ago, when my husband and I were on a cruise, we often used the elevators. We experienced both friendly rides and rides when everyone was aloof and isolated in themselves. There's a kind of discomfort when the ride is slow, passing through many decks, or floors, especially when an elevator is full, and no one speaks or makes eye contact. To me it seems ridiculous to be almost intimately pressed against one another and not say a word. One time when that happened, I blurted out, "Hello everyone." It actually took a little courage to go against the existing condition of silence. But it broke the so- called "ice." Someone chuckled. Someone said "Hi." Another person commented on the situation, and a few more people spoke. The ride lasted only a minute or two. Nothing earth-changing happened, but to me it did feel like a dawning.  
 

During this time of heightened stress in our country and in the world, you and I can soften the stress. We can each help build unity and respect among us. We can foster healing in ourselves and others. All we have to do is treat people with warmth and kindness. Smile. Say hello. Ask about their day. You never know what can happen as a result of little initiatives. 

Truly,
Charlene