Have you every tried talking to the stranger sitting next to you on the airplane?

Have you chatted with another patient while you were both waiting nervously for each other’s turn at a doctor’s clinic?

Have you shared your dismay with a customer in a long queue at the supermarket during the holiday season?

You may think I’m strange, but my answer is yes to all and even to more odd situations like those.

Small talks are defined as casual conversations about unimportant topics. I half agree. I actually think, it could also be formal, sincere and essential, if you want it to be.

Someone said, there are no strangers in this world. Only friends we have not met.

My naive younger version found this quote cute. Unfortunately now, the cynical in me can’t help but raise an eyebrow. There may be future friends out there that I have yet to meet, but so are scammers. This doesn’t stop me though. I have activated my defensive instincts over time, to stay guarded in engaging with small talks to new acquaintances. I hope you will do, too. If you are still apprehensive to create new connections, just try to recall how your valued friendships started. I’m sure some originated from candid, unassuming small talks back in the day.

Cheers to a world with more friends and less lonely people! May we be not hesitant to begin one small talk at a time.