The One Hand From the Steering Wheel Southern Wave

Have you ever been driving down the road, generally at a slower speed, and waved at someone- you know the one handed casual throwing of the hand up in greeting? And they didn’t do it back? Did it make you mad, even just a little bit? If so you are probably from the South.

I always get annoyed when people don’t wave back like that. As if it’s a personal insult. I make an effort to wave and smile at everyone. Doesn’t it just feel awkward and rude not to? I know I feel offended when someone just stares at me in return. Especially when driving slow enough past a mom or walker and they just look at you like you’re nuts. Child please- I’m the one being polite! You’re the rude one.

I think this is a uniquely Southern characteristic, honestly. I mean come on, you readers of mine who haven’t been in the South long tell me truthfully, would you be offended if someone didn’t wave back at you? Hell would you even wave to begin with?!

I’m not talking about a full on wave with your whole arm, I mean even just a casual flicker of the wrist in greeting. And if you are walking past someone on the street and make eye contact with them, you should *always* smile and ask how their day is. And even if yours sucks you say “I’m fine thank you” if they ask how you are in return. Yes, occasionally you will get stuck in a conversation with some nut- or even someone who isn’t a nut but you just don’t want to chat. But it’s called manners. Too many people don’t have em anymore.

That being said- trust me there are times when I don’t feel like chatting- and that’s when I use my body language to communicate that I’m in a hurry. Or I just flat out say- I’m so glad to see you but I really must go. You can still be nice and polite.

Anyways. That’s been on my mind here lately. There’s a lot of rude people out there. Y’all need to wave back- dammit.

Love to all y’all,

Molly