are cyclists snobs?

[colorisnt]

Ya know… I'm actually a bit bothered by the idea that people who are simply not socially outgoing are being instantly labeled snobby….some of us are introverts, it's nothing to do with you personally, we just don't necessarily interact with strangers all that readily…..

Or that everyone is always able to smile and be engaging all the time. I am a super extroverted and generally friendly person but while I was studying for my PhD comprehensives, I took my daily walk to Starbucks from my office because I desperately needed a break and was deep in thought as I was walking. A guy came up to me and actually TOLD me to smile. When I ignored him, he screamed "stuck up b*tch!" at me and ran off. That's an extreme example but it still makes you think. I also know a guy who is one of the nicest, friendliest people you could meet but everyone who doesn't really "know" him thinks he's mean because his face is just a little severe.

This is one of those things where I try to think about OTHER reasons people could be preoccupied.

[Jolt]

Or that everyone is always able to smile and be engaging all the time. I am a super extroverted and generally friendly person but while I was studying for my PhD comprehensives, I took my daily walk to Starbucks from my office because I desperately needed a break and was deep in thought as I was walking. A guy came up to me and actually TOLD me to smile. When I ignored him, he screamed "stuck up b*tch!" at me and ran off. That's an extreme example but it still makes you think. I also know a guy who is one of the nicest, friendliest people you could meet but everyone who doesn't really "know" him thinks he's mean because his face is just a little severe.

This is one of those things where I try to think about OTHER reasons people could be preoccupied.

Sheesh. Sounds like the guy you encountered on the street is the one with a problem. I agree that people shouldn't assume somebody is snobby just because they don't greet everyone as they ride/run/walk/whatever...lots of more likely reasons as others have already stated, and it's awfully unfair to judge people by one little passing thing like that.

[OakLeaf]

That smile thing is just garden variety street harassment. It's one of the things that gets a lot of play in the Hollaback movement. That you don't hear it every day, any more, is a testament to how well the anti-street-harassment efforts have been working.

[colorisnt]

That smile thing is just garden variety street harassment. It's one of the things that gets a lot of play in the Hollaback movement. That you don't hear it every day, any more, is a testament to how well the anti-street-harassment efforts have been working.

Another reason to thank the feminist movement and a reason we still need it for sure. But yes, that's just an extreme example.