Things I've Learned About Strangers

I have learned some things about the strangers I encounter in my day to day life:

  1. Few have malicious intentions.
  2. Most have good intentions.
  3. Many are distracted.

When a stranger does something wrong, even if it’s something small, it’s easy to assume malicious intent. This assumption generally leads to anger or frustration.

If I catch myself doing this, I stop and instead assume they were distracted by something else happening in their life, or see if I can find the good intention in their action. Not only are scenarios two and three much more likely, but it makes my day a little brighter and the interactions with those around me easier regardless of their actual motive.

The next time a stranger makes a mistake around you, try to find the good in it. It might surprise you how good it feels.