Talking to Strangers

As kids we are taught not to talk to strangers, but does that really apply as adults? It would seem like we all think so. But the cause of this probably isn't so much "talking to strangers" as it is the world in which we live. We are all so busy and wrapped up in our own world we can sometimes neglect the world around us.

I am guilty. In addition to the "business" of life, I am a shy person. I don't really know what to say to people I don't really know. I am horrible at remembering names --not even five minutes after someone introduces themselves, I am trying to remember their name.

Yesterday, a friend and I were taking a walk around the lake at Craighead Forest Park in Jonesboro, Ark. We passed some other joggers and walkers and a few even said hello. About a quarter of the way through we ran into two people who were fishing, said hello and continued walking. My friend commented that it looks like she caught something and I said, "I think thats just a lure," and laughed. A few seconds later the lady said something back to us about the fishing. So we stopped and we talked, not thinking anything of it.

It was just something small but as we prepared to continue walking she actually thanked us for stopping and talking with her. The conversation probably could have gone on all day. It was one of those moments that made me stop and think how something so simple as just talking to a stranger can brighten someone's day.

Haunted House

Throughout college I wanted to go to a haunted house or haunted corn maze with my friends. In four years, we never did go. But this past Friday I finally got to go to a "haunted house," in Little Rock. My mom and I took my niece to the "Old Haunted Warehouse" in Little Rock, located right behind the Pulaski County Jail.

I wanted to go as soon as I saw the flier at Spirit Halloween Store and the clerk said it was well worth it. Not only is it a "haunted house," it is in a bad section of town, behind the county jail and visitors have to walk from the parking area to the warehouse. I loved it. Of course, I am almost 24 years old and male. I'm not stupid, I know nothing is really dangerous inside and that people in costumes are going to be jumping out at me. I was never scared, never even jumped. But I did laugh the entire time.

My niece is 10. It was dark inside but my eyes had adjusted. I could tell where there would likely be people hiding and I kept my eyes on all of the figures. When I walked around a corner, I put my back to the wall so that I wouldn't be surprised. In another room I was watching my surroundings -- that is all I can say because I don't want to give away the surprise. I will say my favorite part was the strobe lights. Again, I won't say more than that.

I think I may go again with some other friends. If the staff will let me, I have a few tricks up my sleeve (or at least one) that I would like to pull to further scare my friends since I already know the layout and whats coming. Anyway, if you are looking for a good haunted house in the Little Rock/Central Arkansas area, the "Old Haunted Warehouse" on Brown Street (off of Roosevelt) behind the jail is one good option.