This time last week I launched The Hello Pledge. It’s shaping up to be the little initiative that could. Over the past week I’ve experienced the following:
Several people have come up to me to say a very intentional “Hello Mo!”, leaving me slightly confused. But their greeting was usually followed by “I read your blog and I’m working on saying hello more.” Or, “I usually say hello but yes, I’ve noticed not everyone says it back”. One colleague, the fabulous Michelle Leroux, editor of Whistler Is Awesome (and awesome in her own right), even chronicled the reactions she got as she experimented with saying hello along the Valley Trail in Whistler. You can read about her hilarious and scientifically undefendable experience here.
I also received many notes from friends and complete strangers, sharing their enthusiasm for The Hello Pledge. Here’s a sampling:
What a great idea, Maureen! As it’s already something I regularly do it’s something I am happy to sign up. Neighbourhoods where people simply say hello are few and far between but it does make a difference. But if we all make an effort to be friendly, this is how friendships can happen. And then that strengthens the communities, which encourages more people to be friendly, etc. A virtuous circle. Let’s pledge! ~ Cynthia Games
I am indeed a big fan of saying hellooooo… an amazing initiative Mo! Thank you. We all need to smile and say hello a wee bit more often. 😉 ~ Cathy Goddard
From one Maureen to another: Thanks for this link. I love the idea of The Hello Pledge. This is an action we can see working before our very eyes. We can also experience the health benefits that derive from this engaging approach to community. ~ Maureen A. Jung, PhD
I always like to do this and I like it in return, who wouldn’t? I will make an even greater effort though and spread the word too. ~ Dave Manuel
To date almost 100 people have signed up to “officially” commit to saying hello to passersby. Thank you. It’s a great start. But it’s JUST A START. Let’s keep the momentum going. Let’s each encourage five people to sign on to The Hello Pledge here. Then ask them to encourage five more people and so on – the results will eventually be exponential and we’ll have many, many more people working toward creating friendlier, more connected communities.
So, as we put this into practice, please share your stories of saying hello to passersby. Are they surprised? Do they respond? Do they avert their gaze? What’s been your experience? Other Hello Pledgers would love to hear about it.
Share the Hellos. Take the pledge. Tell five friends. And my huge thanks to each of you for being part of this little initiative that could. Let’s go big! www.thehellopledge.com
~ Maureen Douglas
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