I look ahead and slowly around at my surroundings. When I see people I look them in the eye and nod to them with a small smile. They usually smile and or wave back. I feel this creates a connection between me and this person, even if only for that moment, and allows both of us to feel as though someone has acknowledged our existence.

I grew up in a household where I was rarely acknowledged and for a long time just looked at the ground while walking down the street. I didn't realize it until I started looking up that this only added to the frustration and isolation I have felt so often.