Take a Bow

If you were brought up in everyday society, I am sure that you were taught, or learned by the example of others, to shake hands with strangers on first encounter. I am also sure, you have sometime or other been so unfortunate as to meet someone who simply did not wish to kindly shake your hand. No matter how long you stared at their hand stuffed in their pocket or how far you stuck out yours in obligation, they would not indulge in the slightest handshake with you. Perhaps they were momentarily mysophobic or felt awkward giving your hand a slight shake in geniality. Whatever the reason, the fear of handshake rejection is psychologically petrifying and remains the unspoken fear among strangers.

So I have a proposition to make- a plea for folks to turn back to days of old; when men and women would engage in a mutual bow on each first encounter. A bow, or curtsy if you like, in place of the awkward and cumbersome handshake, would rid us of any fear of handshake rejection...and would greatly relieve your new companion. So the next time you meet a stranger, I say, take a bow!