May We All Remain Strangers a Little Bit

What is it about the strangers I meet when out walking my dog? I can offer them complete attention for a few minutes. My dog taught me this! This is a ritual I enjoy and have been able to practice daily for many years. I find that the people closer to me do not get the same treatment. In fact, my expectations soar. This is disastrous and I am trying to understand it. As I said to my husband may we all remain strangers a little bit to allow that space for acceptance.