Is it me, or are people becoming less friendly? I have always been one to tell someone “Hi” or one to acknowledge them in some form or fashion.
While walking acknowledging them with a head bob, a handshake, or even just a simple “howdy” or hello as I go about my day.
How many of you have been snubbed? You acknowledge them, but they look away, simply ignore you, or even look annoyed. It makes one wonder if friendliness is going out of style. I grew up in an era where we talked to others. I guess I got it honest. My grandfather knew no strangers; he would talk to anyone, often with you waiting in the hot car.
I’m sure you’ve seen social media where people are being rude to the police and others. It appears we have made being rude stylish and acceptable. Maybe if I wasn’t a cop, it wouldn’t bother me as much. But I base my day-to-day operations of being nice to others, even when they make that a difficult task. Yet you see the “Karens,” or the get-off-my-lawn people. Nearly impossible for them to be polite or cordial to another.
I was in court sometime back, and I watched as an individual started berating and disrespecting the judge in his courtroom. This never bodes well for the one being disrespectful, I promise you.
In contrast, I can’t go anywhere in Trinity without being greeted or go somewhere in Trinity without someone stopping and someone taking the time to thank me for my service and for the changes they have seen in the police department.
I’m sure we have our “grumpy” people in our city, but I have had minimal interaction with them. I enjoy going to the Café, sitting and talking with the regulars. We sit at the table and discuss the topic of the day.
I encourage you to take the time to tell someone “Hello” or take the time to acknowledge another. You taking the time to acknowledge another may make someone’s day, who may not otherwise be having a good day.
Call us if you need us.
Steven Jeter is Chief of Police in Trinity.
