It seems as though everyone's afraid of human interaction these days. I get it, I'm an introvert. I will see someone I know on the street and try to cross the street before they see me. I cherish my alone time. But there's a point where it goes too far. Despite my inclinations, I usually try to make an effort where it matters. I'll politely chat up a barista, an Uber driver, or my neighbors when I see them in the hall. We're all so isolated these days that any gesture at community and brotherhood is a good thing.
I think the same goes for people who come into your house to do repairs. You're paying them to be there, yes, but they're also solving a problem that you couldn't fix on your own. I get just wanting to leave them alone, but a little kindness goes a long way. That's why this note was so jarring…