CFerguson wrote:
Agree with the trend you noted. But not all is lost- there are still outgoing folks about.
What we do is just smile and say hello to folks walking by the campsite or when we are on our way to the bath house/etc. Sometimes a nice comment on their décor, Rv, dog, or whatever. Sometimes that starts a conversation and those are the folks I want to talk to anyway. The grumps can stay inside and isolated if they want.
You hit the nail on the head. Folks love to talk about themselves or about their 'stuff'. If you truly want to start a discussion with someone, give a compliment and ask a few generic questions about something visible. Respect their space. Some just do not want to invest time in someone who will be moving on in a week or two or a couple months to never be seen again. Others appear friendly on the 'outside', but their body language tells you they are not interested. Everyone can relate to a smile and a kind voice. Most want to talk about themselves. If you want to be social, start there. Look in the mirror, see what others see. Do you reek of the 'stand offish' attitude or are you welcoming, pleasant, and sincere?
Being kind to others is not rocket science. Being generally interested in others requires an investment of time and a sincere effort to show that you are interested in what they have to say.
Good luck.
Lakeside
