Being from Brooklyn, New York, I am well versed in not talking to Brooklynites that I don’t know. The reason for this is simple – the wrong words can start a fight, an incorrect look can start a war – and God forbid you look at another man’s girlfriend. But since I moved to New Jersey – there have been two words that I have said more than any other – and saying those words have been a welcomed pleasure.

I will confess that I have said these words many times in the past to my neighbors, unknown colleagues and people I have passed on the street from my hometown – only to get a stare, a look like I have five heads – or an expletive. But here in “The Garden State” – they say it right back to me. At first, I did not say it, but it was said to me. It was only after hearing these words said to me both at work and on the street that I let my guard down and began to say it back. After I began to say it in return – I was astounded that saying it actually works here – that people are that nice that when you say those two words – they do not look at you like they want to rip your head off.

From neighbors, to well-known colleagues, I have heard these two words – but amazingly – I have also heard them from co-workers I do not know – and complete strangers I pass on the street or wait in line with at the supermarket. I never realized in my life that there would be a place on this Earth that people would utter these words as a reflex – simply because they come in close contact with another human being – and actually want to say these words to them – because they feel it is the right thing to do.

After living here close to one year, I have gotten used to it – and now say these words, not only on a daily basis – but actually enjoy being able to say them without fearing for my life. With a smile on my face, I happily say these words to each and every person I pass – be it on the street, at my job – or in my condominium complex. As a person approaches me, I catch their eye and as soon as they are in earshot of me – put a big smile on my face and say these words with the most happiness I have in my heart – because truthfully – I have wanted to utter these words all my life – but were never able to do so until now.

These two words?

Good morning.