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photo found at thrivesmart.comI like to wear my sunglasses for many reasons, the main one being that my eyes are a very light color, which makes them ultra sensitive to sunlight. However, I'm going to let you in on a little secret. My favorite reason for wearing sunglasses is that they allow me to be more observant of the people I encounter each day.
I was thinking about this recently and wondered why it is that strangers tend to avoid eye contact with each other. In my opinion, human beings are the most interesting entity on our planet. I mean sure, nature has its beauty and intricacies. Architecture has lines and shapes which can be striking and fascinating. Technology also never ceases to impress me. But the individuality and personality reflected in every human being alive is absolutely amazing if we take the time to notice each other.
Behind every face is a story to be told. A lifetime of stories, really. Each person we encounter is a walking shell which encompasses so much more! Our bodies are simply containers for the hopes, fears, dreams, disappointments and experiences that we carry within us. Just one look into a person's eyes is all I need to get a feel for the life that exists inside the exterior. The whole idea that 'the eyes are a window to the soul'? I totally buy into that. I love to look into people's eyes and get some idea of what's really there.
I think it's why most of us enjoy people-watching. Do you ever create stories for the people who pass you by? We are some pretty amazing creations, and no two are exactly alike! Think about that.
Check us out! We're incredible!
Another point of view that comes to mind in regard to all of this is how technology comes into play with the increasing lack of actual human interaction these days. That, my friends, is a whole other post. For now I'll just say that I miss the days where letters and a knock on the door were the primary ways we communicated with each other. Don't get me wrong - I love my computer and cell phone as much as the next guy. But when there is a flesh-and-blood person, a real-life human being around, how could people be more interested in typing abbreviated messages into some handheld technology than enjoying a little face to face conversation?
Actually, come to think of it, I may not need to hide behind my sunglasses anymore as an excuse to enjoy the diversity of my fellow earth-inhabitants. Most of them would likely not even notice my curiosity. Maybe I'll just smile and boldly look into each of the multitude of faces I come across each day. And if someone happens to find the time to meet my gaze?
I think I'll start with a simple, "Hello."
11 comments:
So many thoughts have been provoked because of this post that I could leave a lengthy comment, but I won't. Just know that I really enjoyed it and think that you are spot on.
I too love to wear sunglasses so I can people watch. Without my dark glasses on though I usually do try to make eye contact and smile. Depending on my mood. Lately I've been in the no eye contact mood...I need to get out of it.
Oh this is fabulous! I love to observe people and much the better behind dark glasses.
Unless it's those times when you see an adult and they reach up with a finger and you go, "Don't do it...don't do it!!!!" and lo and behold up the nose goes the finger and you know what is going to come next.........do you continue to watch to see what they'll do with it? Are they going to wipe it or flick it somewhere or are they going to NOOOOOOO NOT IN THE MOUTH!!! YOU'RE AN ADULT!
People do the MOST bizaare (I'm sure I spelled that wrong) things when they don't think someone is watching.
I wear my sunglasses at night...
:)
I really liked this post!
Natalie- This is one of those posts I have composed in my head a jillion times but it never turns out quite right. That's how I felt about it again today, but I appreciate that you really enjoyed it. Thanks.
SO- I try to make eye contact as well and it's disconcerting how many people try to avert their gaze as if they weren't looking at you in the first place. I'm always tempted to say something like, "It's okay! You can look at me!" But, of course, I never do.
Rachel- You sort of made me cringe and laugh all at the same time! Tonight I had the chance to observed some people in a public place and I was embarrassed for some of them because of their behavior. Rest assured, though - there were no fingers-up-the-nose involved!
Kinsey- Thanks! You just got a song stuck in my head...
hey you, don't get worried, i am 67 years old and harmless, just ask no surf, anywhio i wanted to comment on my sunglasses i wear all the time now>>.i went to see alice in wonderland ain 3 d and now i wear those glasses out in the bright sun, and guess what they seem to help{my eyes that is} i don't get very many dates wearing them however
Putz- It's good to hear that those 3-D sunglasses are good for something. My kids always pop the lenses out of theirs and wear them around like nerds. Lucky for them, they don't have to worry about finding a date. ;) I appreciate your coming by and commenting - stop by again!
I was trained out of wearing sunglasses when I worked as a lifeguard at a summer camp for children with emotional and behavioral disorders--it was imperative that the children be able to see the eyes of the staff members for optimal communication.
So I just squint.
You'll look younger longer than I will. :)
Anaise- I'm a total squinter - and besides that, I smile and laugh a lot. So I'd guess that we both look in our 30's...
great post! and one that I needed today. thank you :)
A lifetime of stories indeed....
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