Stopped by police

[GG]

Wow. That is a truly sad state of affairs. Can you imagine not being able to tell someone "Good morning," "Nice day," or "How much do I owe you for the coffee?"

OK. “Talk to” might not be the correct description. I should have written “ask questions” or something like that.
That said; to my experience Americans in general are by far more open minded and better at small talking than are we. Don’t misunderstand me. I like the way you do it.
But these, shall we say cultural differences, do that we don’t expect to be stopped in the street by a cop – unless he has a good reason to.
If he was standing in a bar having a cup of coffee it would be quite another matter. Then he is no longer “official” despite his uniform. Then he could make all the comments and ask all the questions he liked to.

A sad state of affairs? We don't think so.
Have a nice weekend!

Greg