When was the last time someone’s actions or words infuriated you with speed and intensity? Was it someone you knew very well, moderately well, or not at all?
When was the last time someone’s actions or words delighted you with speed and intensity? Was it someone you knew very well, moderately well, or not at all?
When I was en route to purchase some footwear this afternoon, it dawned on me that the reason there isn’t much I can do when a close friend is unhappy, brooding, or annoyed is precisely because it is a close friend. Were I a casual acquaintance or a stranger, this friend would not feel obliged to be in a good mood, and thus, may find any interaction we may have to be amusing.
No wonder a five minute chat with a stranger often makes me feel better when I’m having a bad day or week (compared to anything an existing friend may say or do).
My hypothesis also applies to why scrolling through the pages of strangers’ blogs and tumblrs can soothe my soul when even my friends cannot.
Might also be that with a stranger there is no commitment to follow-up; there is no further investment of your time. You satisfy whatever urge you have to read or learn about someone else’s tragedy or happiness, without actually having to do anything about it. Totally reminds me of someone I use to know.
You satisfy whatever urge you have to read or learn about someone else’s tragedy or happiness, without actually having to do anything about it.
You’re right. Even if there is genuine interest or curiosity in how that test/audition/speech/presentation/tough talk went, there’s no responsibility or burden to maintain concern. And, as the person who is having a lousy day, there is no pressure to return to one’s normal self in a timely fashion.
Thanks for stopping by and sharing your thoughts.
You are most welcome. Thanks for producing interesting content!