Gruß Gott!

There was a time, when strangers passing each other, would smile and make some comment such as “Good Morning” or “Nice Day”, and then continue on their way, or even stop to talk if the stranger indicated they wished too.

There was a time, when a child in distress, would be helped and cuddled by strangers, until the child’s parents, or relatives arrived.

There was a time, when elderly people left their front doors open, and neighbours would ‘pop in’ to pass the time of day, and ask if they needed anything.

There was a time, when strangers who looked lost, or confused, would be helped by other strangers.

There was a time, when a man entering a shop, would hold the door open for women.

There was a time when a driver passing a broken down car in a country road, would stop to offer assistance.

There was a time, when people respected each other, and never swore in mixed company.

There was a time, when children respected their elders.

There was a time, when though people were poor, they helped each other, and gave others what they could spare to others worse off than themselves.

There was a time, when elderly people were respected, and their wisdom was sought after.

There was a time, when the sick and dying were comforted, and never died alone.

So what happened?

Why is our Beautiful World so sad now?

Why is it that as our Civilizations advance, and we are surrounded by all sorts of aids to make our lives easier, we seem to get sadder?

Maybe we have lost our sense of humanity and companionship, and our tribal instincts to socialize with each other?

Civilization is not evil, neither is its Civilizations fault for what ails us.

If we remember our humanity, and remember and learn the lessons of history, we can, make our World Happier. But that takes will power. A wish by individuals to help others, without thought for reward for themselves.

A simple act of kindness between strangers to each other, a simple Greeting as we pass, a smile, a wave, all have long term effects that spread around the World.

It is said, that a butterfly flapping its wings in Africa, can result in a hurricane in America, so why can a kind act, between strangers, not have the same result?

So think as you pass by each other, and smile, and say, ‘Gruß Gott!’—‘Hello’—‘Nice Day’---or just smile!

Who knows, by greeting a stranger by wishing them a safe journey and simply saying, ‘Hello’ will make you feel better as well, and spread goodwill around you, which will spread like the ripples in a bond, and slowly spread.

Auf-Wiedersehen----See you again-----!