Say Hi or Not

I was out and about over the weekend and almost (literally) ran into an old...friend. Actually, I'm not even sure I can equate him as a "friend"...but for the sake of our discussion right now, let's just say that we were friends. Anyway, I saw him and I suddenly had a big decision to make...should I turn the other way and ignore him or should I stand firm and chat? Tough choice.

This definitely wasn't the first time I found myself in this situation and I seriously doubt that it's going to be the last time. What's up with that? I'm out minding my own business and I see someone I know...do I say hi or do I turn around and walk the other way? To tell you the truth, there are plenty of people (men and women) who inspire this fret and feeling. It's crazy, I know. But still, I can't help it.

So what am I suppose to do in these situations? Stay or go? Talk or ignore? Be friendly or be invisible? Well...I hate to admit that I've done both. There have been times that I have stood my ground, participated in friendly chatter, and made good on plans to see them again. And it was a great way to reconnect with someone I haven't seen in awhile. Other times, well...seeing them randomly reminds me of times and things that I would rather forget. I mean after awhile sometimes seeing someone, much less talking to them, is just downright uncomfortable...and it's just easier to turn the other way. So I guess it really just depends.

As for this weekend, well, I did a little of both. I stopped, smiled, and chatted about random nonsense that I’m sure was forgotten the second we parted ways. We both made promises to keep in touch and schedule an opportunity to hang out…promises that were just made during the heat of the moment and probably won’t ever happen. So there you have it…I guess that can be classified as middle ground.