We’ve all done it. We’ve done it in our dorms, in the halls of Hamilton, along Broadway, and even in Butler. We’ve done it, even when we know it goes against social norms. We do it even though we never would have thought we would sink so low. But worst of all, we do it without shame.

For some reason, Columbia has created a culture of ignoring others, especially in chance encounters in daily life. As Sari Ancel pointed out in her senior wisdom, Columbians too often bury themselves in a fake text on their phone or taking a “sudden interest in lawn trimmings” when faced with the prospect of running into an acquaintance on campus or off. For one reason or another, we appear to disdain the opportunity to talk with someone who we know decently well. Instead, we prefer widespread passive alienation.

We’re definitely not the only school dealing with this affliction, but since I’m an opinion blogger for just Columbia, I’ll focus on it as a problem in Morningside. My issue with the practice (and I don’t deny doing it myself) is that it exacerbates the already huge problem of a lacking community here. At Columbia, it’s hard enough to meet people. Why do we make it even harder on ourselves by essentially sabotaging our existing relationships through snubbing?

The solution is simple: a simple hello when you see someone you know. You don’t need to learn how to do small talk. Not even that—just wave. Or smile. Or wink. Or thumbs-up. Anything, as long as you acknowledge the existence of that person. Not only will you be helping the friendship, but you’ll also be validating that person’s existence. And in a place like New York, that is enough to revolutionize someone’s day. So, if you see me walking down the street and I suddenly “get” a text, hold me to these words. If we all work at it, we may just attain some semblance of community in this place.