Talking To Strangers Is A Philosophy

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Talking to strangers can be a valuable and enriching experience. It helps me to:

  • Expand my horizons and learn about different perspectives and experiences.
  • Challenge my biases and assumptions.
  • Build new relationships and connections.
  • Increase my empathy and understanding of others.
  • Gain new insights into the world around me

Of course, there are also risks associated with talking to strangers. However, these risks can be mitigated by being aware of my surroundings and trusting my gut instincts. If I feel uncomfortable in a situation I’ve leaned to just walk away.

Overall, I believe that the benefits of talking to strangers outweigh the risks. By opening myself up to new people and new experiences, I have made my life richer and more fulfilling.

In addition to the above, I would also add that talking to strangers can be a way of overcoming social anxiety. By gradually exposing ourselves to others I have learned to relax and be more comfortable in social situations.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to talk to strangers is a personal one. However, I encourage everyone to step outside of their comfort zone and give it a try. You may be surprised at the positive experiences you have.

Passed Out in the Library

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Passed Out in the Library

The last thing I remember was locking the door of the high school library at the end of the day.  And then inexplicably I found myself seated at my desk, confused,  and with an aching head.

I had no memory of walking back to my office and sitting down at my desk before I passed out,  a phenomenon later explained to me as post-traumatic amnesia.

Realizing I was alone in the library and not well,  I lifted the phone on my desk and called for help.  Someone came and escorted me,  still dazed,  to the principal’s office.   David,  my principal,  and a good friend,  called my husband.  (See Magazines for the Principal – for David F  and Mr October)

”Danny,  what do you think of those Yankees?”,  I remember hearing David ask Danny on the phone.   And then after a little more sports talk –  the two of them big fans – I heard David tell Danny not to be alarmed but I had fainted in the library and shouldn’t drive myself home.  “In fact I think you should take her to the hospital.”  he said.

Danny came to get me and we drove to the local Bronx ER where I underwent a few tests as well as an MRI to rule out stroke and other serious conditions.

It happened MRIs were done in another building  and thus I was wheeled out of the hospital on a gurney to that other location a few yards away.  It was drizzling and so I was covered with a sheet head to toe.  When Danny saw that he thought I was dead,  and until I was able to assure him otherwise,  he was rather upset!

After awaiting the test results and worrying a bit,  I was diagnosed with low blood sugar and advised not to go too long without eating,  nor to skimp on meals.

They kept me overnight for observation,  and discharged me the next day.   Then, to avoid another low blood sugar fainting episode,  we went to City Island for a fabulous seafood dinner!

– Dana Susan Lehrman