It’s very common in Australia to ask people how they are, however most of the time we don’t really mean it. We don’t want to know how you are.
“How are you?”, “How are you going?”, “How have you been?” and the colloquial Howareya?” are greetings rather than conversation starters.
With that in mind asking someone how they are and meaning it can make a big difference to someone’s day.
A friendly smile can do the same.
Everyone has something going on though it might not be reflected in the façade that they present to the world.
Ups and downs are part of life however the downs can be intense and seem to last forever and everyone’s issues are unique and not to be taken lightly.
People are busy, heads down, headphones in, rushing fast through life and generally not noticing what’s happening around them and not noticing the people around them.
We expect instant connection via mobile phones, email, internet and social media, yet, we don’t even know our in the flesh neighbours.
It’s ironic that in a world where we are more connected than ever before it’s easy to feel alone.
Alone and ignored.
"Be nice to each other and take time to smell the roses." - Steve Pennells
I start all my classes checking in with the participants to see how their week has been and how their meditation practice has been. Recently when I got to the end of 18 people, a lovely young man asked, “what about you?”
No-one has ever asked me that before and I cannot put into words just how good it made me feel.
I believe that connection is everything. Connection, kindness and compassion.
A kind and enquiring “How are you,” a genuine “hello” or a warm smile can connect you to another person instantly. This doesn’t mean that you have stop and chat, or become instant best friends, it just means that you recognise that person as a real-life human being.
These simple gestures can make someone’s day and yours too.
Image Kristina Kripkovic - Unsplash