Not long ago I was standing in the narthex at church and watched as people arrived for worship. I enjoy being a greeter and have to restrain myself from leaping into the arms of folks as they arrive. One woman was standing at her mail box and another came in through door from the parking lot. They were less than three feet apart when they 'met'. Neither acknowledged the other, no change in facial expression one way or the other, just as though they didn't see each other. That has bothered me since---why would these long time members not greet each other with at least a head nod or even go so far as to utter 'good morning' as they passed. But nothing.
Is it personalities at work here? What would the chances be that both ladies had the exact same personality, one which interferes with allowing for social graces? What about our Christian love for one another, if nothing else? Because of the way I am, my head or heart won't let me grasp the concept of totally dissing someone I know. Even those people I don't know get a smile or head nod when coming face to face with me. I just don't get it.
Since I got home from WI, I was in a restaurant (WHAT???) where I observed similar behavior within what appeared to be a family. If I did not know better, and I don't, I would think this couple had a huge argument prior to entering the building. The looks, their demeanor, was such that gave the feeling of a deep animus toward each other. How does that happen? I take great pleasure from dining with folks, usually, enjoy the social aspects of it, and it made me feel badly for this group that was missing out on that interaction. Maybe it was just the hassle of getting everyone loaded into the car for the ride over or deciding where to go for dinner...Perhaps they eventually did relax and treat each other in a friendly fashion. Or, was I imagining things?
