There is nothing like patio sitting on a warm sunny day. Recently, I discovered a delightful Mexican restaurant in the Midwest. Being from Texas, I am particular about my tacos. True story, when pregnant, I cried over a good taco in Houston. This time around, I did not get that emotional, but it still was delightful! Dare I say, better than some Texas tacos?
I also ordered a prickly pear margarita lined with Tajin red chili powder salt. Tacos and margaritas. I mean, they just go so well together, right? The hygae of warm weather: sun, patio, tacos, and a cool beverage.

Natalie, my nice waitress at this restaurant, gave a great description of the menu. She seemed so genuine and I felt a nice connection with this stranger on an otherwise lonely evening. I decided to push past my comfort zone and strike up a conversation with her. We talked about spreading positivity in the world. It was a great talk! Afterwards, I felt more energized. It is funny how strangers can sometimes affect you like that.
It even allowed me to extend kindness when approached later in the evening by an organization asking for donations. I identified with their cause (mental health awareness) and gave them a contribution.
Just like that, I helped impact the community. Only a bit, but kindness has a ripple effect. It made me feel good. And this all started with talking to a stranger.
So often in life, we keep to ourselves. But, humans are social creatures. Behavioral psychologist at the University of Chicago, Nicholas Epley states that humans do in fact like chatting with strangers, but before the conversation is started, they underestimate its positive effects. Epley’s studies consisted of individuals commuting to Chicago with varies modes of transportation such as on the train.


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