You’re Just Like Me — Guarded But Friendly

July 27, 2009 · Comments

in Musings

I think you are probably a good person.  I know the vast majority of people are not actively trying to hurt me.  So you’re probably not going to screw me over.

But there’s a chance.

There is a non-zero chance you’re really mean.  I’m afraid of being humiliated / robbed / knifed.  It’s bound to happen someday and you could be the one.

Funny thing is you’re probably thinking the same thing about me.  Neither one of us wants to be vulnerable first.

It’s a trust issue.

Let’s turn it around. How would I react if you introduced yourself?

Well, I’d smile, tell you my name, and shake your hand.  Then there’s a good chance we’ll talk about something moderately interesting.  Every so often, we’ll talk about something really cool.  And once in a blue moon, we’ll find a lifelong friend.

So if you’re just like me, it’s probably going to be okay if I say “hi”.  You’ll probably be friendly. There’s a very good chance you won’t humiliate, rob or stab me.

<deep breath>

Okay, let’s give it a try.

Hi, I’m Greg…

That’s how I convinced myself to get off my ass and talk to people.  99.999% of the time, it works flawlessly. I’ve haven’t been knifed for introducing myself yet.

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