are cyclists snobs?

[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.