a little bow will do you

People here in Japan bow. You already knew that though.

I am a fan of the bowing. You never have to wonder how to greet or bid farewell to someone. That's not the case for me in the States. Do I shake a hand? Give a hug? Nod? Smile? Appropriate greetings and farewells confuse me at home. I don't want to appear overly casual or formal ever. In non-professional situations the handshake feels silly especially with another woman. I'd rather pinch her cheek or give her a high-five. At least it would seem friendlier than shaking her hand. The rules just aren't clear to me. Or they don't exist.

Here in Japan the rules are more clear or at least I'm blissfully ignorant to the nuances. I throw bows around happily all day long. Seems like everyone else is engaged in the same song and dance. So onward I bow.

Good morning. Bow.
Thanks for the groceries. Bow.
Yes. My dog IS cute. Bow.
Nice to meet you. Bow.
I have no idea what you just said. Bow.

Naturally, I impose this behavior on Eli like a good mother does. This way, not that way, MY way.  I put one of my hands behind his head and the other on his belly and push forward creating a passable bow. He obliges in so much as he doesn't scream. And then yesterday as we walked down the street, a couple passed us on the sidewalk. Eli made eye contact, placed his hand behind his head and pushed himself forward into a bow.

Then I crumbled  into a pile of love and glee.

Comments

[Marie]

OK, that is just so sweet. Thanks for making me smile!

I agree that the protocol is unclear in the states. Perhaps I'll start bowing to see if it catches on...

[UT]

Quite possibly the best story I have heard in a long time.

Just got to remove the own hand on head and all is well. Now he can learn to say "sorry" and "thank you" with the frequency of both you and Joe...

Miss you much

Tom

[raehan]

kawai des ne?

(Are you bowing?)

[Old Horsetail Snake]

Absolutely top-rate. Good ol' Eli....

[MommaK]

Sweet!!!!

[carrie]

Agreed. Best story I've heard in a long time. What a smart boy you have there...

[Elizabeth]

oh I loved this-- loved Eli learning to bow-- and also, you are so right-- here in the States everyone has different norms for the greeting and exiting--- hard to be consistent-- I think I'd prefer bows all around.

[Unga Chunga]

Want a picture!!! They are such pleasers and imitators at that age. I know you looked around hoping that others captured the special moment along with you!

[Lucinda]

Awwwwww. You make me want to teach my baby to bow...

[Melody]

I just love hearing stories like this. Our kids are smart aren't they? (Especially little Eli!)