Nothing reduces my capacity for good vibes like this sign. As soon as I see one, I become full of bad vibes – jaw-tightening, fist-clenching, muttering “Grrrr” bad vibes.
The reason for this reaction? That final word, “only”.
Good Vibes – just those two words – is an encouragement, an offer, a promise. “Come in here,” it says. “We’ve got coffee, tea, cake – and good vibes!”
“If you are feeling down,” it suggests, “we can share our good vibes with you.”
Good Vibes Only – that one extra word immediately adds an element of exclusion.
“Don’t come in here with your sad face,” it says. “We only want the happy people.”
“If you’re not bringing the good vibes in with you, then go somewhere else. You’re not welcome here.”
Tales from Tobhamhor 