Hello. Do I know you?

While I was out for a little bit, I heard someone say, “Hi, Mike!” I smiled and responded, “Hello,” and we both kept on walking in our different directions. I was glad he didn't stop to engage in conversation, as I had no idea who he was. But obviously he knew who I was since he greeted me by name. Sometimes I recognize the face and I know that I've met the person in question before, but I just don't know where, and can't put a name to the face.

But not this time. I didn't recognize the voice or the face. Maybe it's someone who was given a tour of the office one time? Could be. People are occasionally shown around and introduced to me, but I've usually forgotten their names before they even leave the room, and their faces vanish from memory soon after. Or maybe he was from church. I've never liked the “Okay, everyone turn around and greet people” thing, which seems to be like there's an 11^th Commandment that all churches must do it at some point in the service. Maybe several months back he shook my hand and introduced himself and I told him my name in return. And of course, I would have forgotten his name and face moments later, but he's one of those people who never forgets anyone they meet.

I remember a situation several years ago where I ended up having a conversation with someone I ran into somewhere. She knew me, but I didn't have the foggiest idea who she was. It's pretty awkward trying to converse with someone and making it sound like you know them, while hoping they say something in the course of the conversation to trigger a memory as to their identity. That's why I'll never greet anyone I bump into somewhere that I think I recognize unless we know each other well enough that there's no doubt that both of us know who the other is. Not to mention that if we don't know each other that well I probably wouldn't have anything to say so I wouldn't have a reason to even start a conversation...