The power of human interaction never ceases to amaze me. Especially because I so easily find comfort when I’m alone, in my little bubble of the internet, obsessive cleaning and craft beer. But the more I encounter these moments of unexpected interaction that make me feel happy, and connected, the more I realize there’s something to it. Some sort of cosmic transfer of energy that has broader meaning.
On my 6-mile run yesterday, I passed a young girl walking on the street. When I run in my neighborhood, I pretty much have to cover every side street if I’m doing anything more than three miles. My neighborhood just isn’t that big. So I passed her once, twice and then three times before I was on my way. The third time I passed her, I was running toward her and she was walking toward me, so we were facing each other. She looked up, smiled and waved a surprisingly energetic wave. It was unexpected. I immediately smiled and waved back with that same 13-year-old girl-like joyful wave. And within seconds, we parted ways.
The moment lifted me up. It was toward the end of my six miles, just the boost I needed. It was just happy, unassuming and simple.
Moments like that make me wonder what forces are at work around me. Is there something out there saying Alyssa, cheer the fuck up! Look at this happy-go-lucky girl and join her in her simple love of life! Or maybe we as human beings have something within us that just yearns for positive interaction. Maybe we just have to be open to it.
Whenever I’m on a park path, I try to acknowledge runners and cyclists passing in the opposite direction. Some people are friendlier than others. But all it takes is one true connection to make me feel like all is right with the world, and with my run. Like we’re all in this together. Just one wave, one “good morning” or even one simple nod of the head.
