Peter Zook
The Daily Cardinal
The scene: Library Mall. The crime: Innocent bystanders who do not even make eye contact. As an active member of a student organization that does non-profit fundraising, I often find myself scattered throughout campus, collecting donations. I never expect people to donate; all I ask is that you at least look at me.
It seems like a small request, but you would be surprised how many people deny you the common courtesy of basic eye contact and treat you like the leper of modern society. A plethora of student organizations do various fundraisers or events that demand attention from passersby. More often than you would think, scores of people walk by as if your existence is meaningless.
As I am standing there holding a sign with statistics about children living with HIV, it is not that difficult to read the sign and ponder what is there. Just because you know I am collecting money does not mean I do not have a message to get across. Therefore, the point is not always to collect money. Grasping the message is almost even more important.
Because so many different student organizations are out there chalking sidewalks, passing out flyers or collecting money, I speak for all of those dedicated volunteers who are degraded by the lack of eye contact.
Think about what eye contact really means. It denotes acknowledgment. It says you exist. Basic eye contact means that there is an unspoken connection taking place between two people. In turn, this could mean something to at least one of the individuals involved. If at least one person takes something away from the situation, then the effort was worth it.
Sunglasses do not give either person involved an excuse to avoid each other. There are subtle and obvious ways of letting someone know you care, even with sunglasses. It could be a simple nod or turn of the head. Neither is hard. Now I do not write to be the police officer of etiquette. I write because I have been there. I know how annoying it is to be ignored while you are sweating, holding up a sign, believing in a cause you stand for and people do not even give you the time of day.
The next time you walk by someone fundraising or out there for a cause, at least spare some nonverbal communication and let them worry about the money.
Peter Zook is a sophomore that is undecided. Please send responses to opinion@dailycardinal.com.
