I had a conversation with a first-time New England-visitor.
As per the stereotype, she insisted we were cold, unfriendly people (compared to her Midwestern folk).
So, I proceeded to share story after story of friendly encounters I had had with complete strangers while out for coffee, at the movie store, in the parking lot.
I desperately tried to convince her that you encounter what you expect to:
If you expect us Greater Boston Area folk to be rude, you’ll only notice the rude ones because, real talk, rude people exist everywhere.
If you expect us Greater Boston Area folk to be warm, you’ll only notice the warm ones because, real talk, warm people exist everywhere.
It’s all about perspective I assured.
No, I don’t think so.
Being the rude, impatient New Englander that I am, I didn’t have the energy to explain I didn’t make this shit up.
Ever notice how happy people are always happy? Their secret: Look for the good.
Ever notice how sad people are always sad? Their secret: Look for the bad.
Make up your mind that New Englanders are assholes, decide for yourself that life sucks: You won’t be disappointed.
But you might be wrong.
Mary's One Hundred 