The Lost Art of Salutation
When my dad was a child
In a long ago age
People were not
So shy to engage
Or lazy or fearful
Or surly or rude
To not give a greeting
Was thought of as crude
My father was taught
When he entered a room
To take notice of all
And let his voice boom
“Hello everyone!
Good to see you once more!
And to those I don’t know
I’m pleased to make your
Acquaintance today”
And tell them his name
He’d stick out his hand
And they’d do the same
The ancient handshake
A sign of respect
The best way for two
Strangers to connect
But something got lost
As years did pass by
Hands stopped extending
And few would say “Hi”
It became commonplace
To walk in a joint
And sit down without
Making a point
To say who you are
And to greet the ones there
Many would just
Be unaware
When you start with indifference
Right off the bat
Is it surprising
Most friendships fall flat?
My father taught me
To stick out my paw
But sometimes it’s met
With a smirk and guffaw
Sometimes I’m given
A look of confusion
They might even check
My head for contusion
“What the hell’s that?”
Is the look on their face
As they take the hand
With an awkward embrace
There’s nothing wrong with
A womanly shake
Unless you’re a man
And afraid you might break
A nail or a bone
Or pick up a germ
But I was taught that
The grip should be firm
It’s the warrior’s way
What my dad taught me
And his dad before him
And on down the tree
So though it’s archaic
An ancient lost art
I have no problem
In standing apart
By following what
My father instilled
Whether your mood
Is glowing or chilled
I’ll stick out my hand
And tell you “Hello”
Because I believe
It’s the best way to show
That I’m happy to meet you
And want to construe
That salutation’s
The best way to debut
~Miro