Like many of you, I have a morning routine before work. In fact, my routine is so exacting, I do the same things at the same time each day. After finishing what needs to be done at home, I drive 2 miles to the local convenience store where I purchase a newspaper, breakfast sandwich, and medium size cup of black coffee. I then read the paper and enjoy my breakfast in the comfort of my automobile.
Because my routine is so exacting, I encounter the same people at the convenience store every morning. They are likely engaged in their own morning rituals as we all do what needs to be done in order to prepare ourselves for a day of commerce.
OK, now this is where the story becomes uncomfortable, at least for me anyway... I don't mind saying good morning to someone, or holding the door for someone entering or exiting, but I really don't want or need to have any involvement greater than that!
One gentleman, about same age as me, sees me every morning. Of course, this necessitates a Good Morning, how are ya today as I exit the convenience store and he enters. I am sure this man is probably a very nice guy, but he has now taken to wanting to wave to me as he exits the store and goes toward his own vehicle. C'mon buddy! We already exchanged pleasantries, I'm trying to have my breakfast before I head off to a fairly high-pressure corporate job. Do I really need to be aware of how long it is going to be before he exits the store and wants to wave bye-bye to me?
I ask you, is it just me, or are any of you as neurotic as me regarding this type of relationship? I am a friendly and likeable person, but I don't need this added burden first thing in the morning! I truly wish things like this did not bother me, but that's what happens with My Neurotic Daze!
