first instinct [poem]

when you make eye contact with a stranger passing by
you have a choice
you can look away
embrace the dissociation of
two unfamiliar souls dodging an accidental connection
you can stare them down
allow them to see only your posturing
and not your softer insides
or maybe
you can just smile
grant them the gentle touch of kindness
that curved lips convey
this is the best choice
of course
the gifting of your openness to a stranger
without an expectation of reciprocation
but kindness is contagious
you’ll find most strangers are inclined
to smile in return

_{* based on a prompt: the people whose first instinct upon eye contact is to smile are treasures.}