“When I see other people who may be in that situation where they feel that they don’t belong, I feel responsible to show them that they do.” – William Cromartie
Must our interactions with people be lengthy in order for them to know that they belong? Is it possible that we could better a strangers day simply with some eye contact and a smile? The story we have today may expose something new on the importance feeling seen has in our lives.

Source: Pixabay
As we go through our day, most, if not all, of us have a seemingly great excuse to avert our eyes from the people that brush past us. Why say anything? What would it even mean to them? Is it worth the effort?
But what are we limiting in our own lives by missing these connections?
Ivan Cash–the talented creator of the video we’re sharing today–had a particularly wonderful interaction with someone in a busy train station who firmly grasps the importance of our engagement with one another. So without further ado, here’s the story of that someone: the insightful William Cromartie.
Cromartie is only a small part of people’s days, but the substance he adds to their experience is monumental. In your own life, have you found that it can take a single interaction to affect the overall quality of your day? What do you think could happen if we all aimed to be that positive catalyst for the people around us? Could we start a chain reaction? If so, where would it take us?
These small, simple additions to our days can change everything. Humans thrive on community — is it possible that these minute connections could bring us all a step closer to experiencing that again?
Feeling seen holds so much power.
Today’s creator, Ivan Cash, is described on his website as “an award-winning interactive artist and film director exploring the intersection of art, design, film, and technology. His work sparks cultural conversations, celebrates human connection, and inspires strangers to interact.” 2 Cash believes that “talking to strangers could change the world” 3 and well, we’re on board with that thought here at Ever Widening Circles.
If you enjoyed the video today, I highly suggest hopping over to explore more of Ivan’s work! Do make sure you put the ever-expanding and eye-opening, Last Photo Project, and the touching personal piece about a strong man named Howard and his farm on your list. You don’t want to miss out on the connection and conversations they bring forth!
To further explore our relationships with each other, jump into any of these articles below!
Keep yourself open and happiness may stay nearby.
-Sam
“No problem can be solved from the same level of consciousness that created it.” – Albert Einstein
Want to hear more about how to make life a bit easier?
Of course, you do. Luckily, there are a few articles waiting for you to read them in these categories!
Life Hacks on EWC Thought Leaders on EWC
Make sure you subscribe to our newsletter to receive your dose of optimism right when it’s released!
Notes:
- “Agent of Connection.” Vimeo. Ivan Cash, 15 Oct. 2017. Web. 09 Nov. 2017. <https://vimeo.com/238328937>. ↩
- “Home.” Ivan Cash. Ivan Cash, n.d. Web. 09 Nov. 2017. <http://www.ivan.cash/>. ↩
- “Home.” Ivan Cash. Ivan Cash, n.d. Web. 09 Nov. 2017. <http://www.ivan.cash/>. ↩