A "New" Segment I like to call...

What You Should Do Today (or apply at least):

It’s a new segment. Well actually it’s not so much new considering I’ve been doing a similar thing to people for as long as I can remember. The only reason why it’s considered a “new segment” is because a formal name has been given to it. That and I am bossy by nature anyway. Go figure.
Anyway too often do I find people saying things that they don’t mean. Yours truly is guilty of this sin, having to say many things only to find at the end of the day I didn’t really mean it. Such frivolous things like “are you okay?” or “I love you”….

Is it because we’re too involved in our own lives that we evolved to no longer care for others around us (may they be significant or not)? Or is it that we do not have not enough time in our daily lives.

I try to care when people try to answer my question, “how are you”/”how was your day”. You can actually see it in people’s eyes when they hear those words. A slight cringe in the subtle regions of their face, the feel of dread gurgling inside of them, or perhaps a internal bound for joy and enlightenment—but all must be caged and restrained. Is it the fear of public chastisement that keeps them grounded? Not exactly, it’s because it’s embedded in their heads that the other party doesn’t want to hear about it anyway.

So instead of a novel of an answer, they briefly spit out a one worded response. “Good” or “okay” and then return the question as a sign of courtesy (some people don’t even have this gift, those bastards).

And I hate that.

Poppy Montage is SO INVOLVED with the people around him… that it’s bordering burglary. Give me substance. Let me wallow in your vanity too! Believe me, I have ALL the time in the world.

So for this “new” segment, I suggest that my lovelies should try something quite interesting: actually request more information after asking “how are you.” Go ahead: reject one word answers and snoop. Yes some people might find that alienating, but don’t be discouraged. Ask why someone is feeling “just” okay. You may not be able to do something about it, but in actuality you did: you went the extra mile to try to be more involved in their lives. (And EVERYONE likes their horn to be tooted, even if it’s in mezzo-piano).
Heck, even if they’re having a good day you should even ask. That way you could share that happy feeling… or be jealous of it. But Momma Montage doesn’t really encourage that. But you’d be surprise with what you’ll get from just listening from others. The first time I did that I learned how to get a discount on electronics AND a free meal from one of the most distinguished restaurants in Los Angeles (it just so happens that this reluctant stranger was the owner).
But don’t expect free stuff all the time, darlings. It’s about giving, not getting! Besides, there’s a consolation prize: that small feeling that you’ve made an insignificant impact in someone’s life… the keyword being impact.
;-)

Until next time,
Poppy C.U. Montage.