The revelation

The picture bearing the colourful circular logo of my favourite American football team, the Pittsburgh Steelers, was carefully removed, destined to be replaced in a new locker by whatever new allegiance I pledged. The clatter of locker doors opening and the buzz of excited conversations about summer plans punctuated the air.

I looked around, taking in the familiar faces of acquaintances and those I merely passed in the hall, never exchanging a word. Reflecting on this, a certain dilemma emerged: when encountering a familiar stranger, should one completely ignore them, smile, or at least nod with a pleasant surprise when the familiar stranger reciprocates.