• Finding new comfort zones •
[2½ MIN READ]
Running is not only great physically, but also socially. It’s given me opportunities to interact with people of all stripes in spaces where I wouldn’t otherwise.
As a practice, I started saying hi to people right from the start (we’re talking in 2011 as a middle-aged male). On Forbidden Drive that variety of people includes Whites, Blacks, and Asians (as the obvious distinctions). The observations that I’ve made are that the former are predictably friendly and the latter (maybe also predictably) more reserved. That’s just me generalizing. It’s the middle group that has really stood out, though. Again, I generalize.
When I say hi to Black people I greet when I’m running, whether they’re running or walking or doing neither, I get more. Maybe it’s because greetings aren’t usually expected. Many times, I’ve detected a tone of surprise with the responses I get. It’s not that I’ve gotten too close and startled someone because when that happens, people always jump and turn as I pass from behind. I’m talking about passing from the front and not getting a startle response. I’m also talking about the “Hi” I get back paired with the tone of undisguised pleasure. I’m also talking about the additional “Have a great day” that’s pretty common. And I’m talking about the “Now you be careful out there!” I got once.
The other thing I’ve noticed is a willingness to engage in conversation. Case in point: I was rounding a corner at the bottom of Shawmont Ave in Philly right along the Schuylkill River and happened upon 3 men in team gear getting their bikes ready to do some cycling. As I approached, I said, “Hey now! How far are you going?” I don’t remember the distance, but I do remember that as I passed, one fellah in particular said in return, “How far are you going?” By this point, I was passing. In other circumstances, I would just have shouted back; but this time I acted on the perceived willingness to converse and stopped: “This one will be a 14-miler.” “Oh boy,” he said as the other 2 looked on appreciatively, “And you’re going uphill.” “It’s the standard effort,” I said as I started off again, “I’m sure yours, too!” By this point, I was yelling back to make sure they could hear me: “Enjoy your effort!” Not to be outdone, he yelled, “You, too! Have a great day!”
As I headed up the hill, I couldn’t help register a few of things about this interchange. It wasn’t just the usual couple of comments, this was a full conversation, even if brief. It was certainly warmer than the interchanges I’ve had with other groups of cyclists at the same place. And I couldn’t help also register that we both let it get louder as we got further apart. Finally, it was fun. It gave me some perspective on conversations I’ve seen take place across entire streets in neighborhoods unlike the ones where I live: warm, loud, fun.
That’s the way community can be. And it’s true wherever and among whomever. I’ve enjoyed experimenting with communities that just do it better.
Previous: A Juneteenth Greeting (2:3)
Updated: 2024’01’03’W (Sequential place in series. Link to previous.)
Drafted: 2023’06’19’M
iCandybyWangC 
Saying hi to other runners, IMO, makes a run so much more enjoyable! And I agree that Black people as much quicker to respond with a friendly greeting. What a great way to build community!