And I’m not talking science, here.

California differs from Hawai’i in so many ways, but one difference has been noticeable to us more than any other: the negative attitudes of the people around us. Not every single person, certainly, but when I head out into the fray of grocery stores and gas stations, the negative energy is palpable. Smiling people are rare, as are people who take the time to make eye contact or greet us with a simple hello.

Having lived in the land of aloha for three years, this has been the hardest thing to take. I want people to greet me as if they are happy to meet a fellow human being. I want people to understand that life is short, and to spend it on a continual downer is not the best use of that time. I’d just like to see more smiling people sharing a little warmth toward new acquaintances or customers.

I’m conscious of my own attitude as I deal with these people and I work to share a smile and make small talk. Unfortunately, not everyone is thrilled with my attempt to spread a little aloha. I actually had TWO people roll their eyes at me the other day.

I don’t remember it being this bad before we left. As a matter of fact, when we moved to this community we all raved about how friendly everybody was compared to our previous location in relatively close proximity to San Francisco. Maybe it’s the economy? Maybe it’s gas prices? Certainly, it’s a frustration.