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If you want to be happy, talk to your fellow commuters.

NPR Morning Edition's report this morning is a bit of an eye-opener, especially if you -- like me -- experience mass transit vicariously, through the tweets of people relaying their thoughts about the apparently-unsavory characters who ride the bus or train with them.

But, no, NPR says. Those people are the key to happiness.

The story is actually not a very new one. In fact, the 

New York Times reported on it and others last April.

It's simple, really. The particularly Minnesota-trait of avoiding eye contact is dooming you to unhappiness.

it's not just mass transit-types that can get a lift from talking to a stranger.

NewsCut

Bob Collins

Author

NPR Morning Edition's report this morning is a bit of an eye-opener, especially if you -- like me -- experience mass transit vicariously, through the tweets of people relaying their thoughts about the apparently-unsavory characters who ride the bus or train with them.


NPR: Study Shows Riding The Quiet Car Is Crushing Your Spirit

Collins, Bob

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Happiness is talking to a stranger

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