One from many things that quite bugs me when I came to state was the “How Are You?” culture. I wasn’t sure, and still unsure today, whether it supposed to be a good culture or bad.
In Indonesia, I barely see people say “How Are You?” (in my own language of course) to anyone in daily conversation, while the most common question being said is “What are you doing?” That’s how we start conversation for most of the time =)
Here, in United States, I heard it everywhere, anytime. I mean, everywhere you go…
When you make a contact with whoever they are, there will be these simple conversations going on:
- Hi, how are you today?
- How’s it going man?
- Wzup dude?
- Yo!
Well, it’s been around 3 years since I stay here, and I’m still feeling a little bit uncomfortable being surrounded by those questions. Most of the case is I don’t have anything to talk to them to begin with. So the conversation will be like this:
I washed my hands in the restrooma guy came in,“Hey, how are you?”
“I’m good, you?” (who is this guy again?)
“Good!”
“cool…”
“…..”
“………”*washed my hands**took out the paper towel**looked at the mirror*“……”
“……….”
“Okay, see you later man”
“aight, see ya!“
Do you see those deadly uncomfortable dots of silence? Yeah, those are always killing me. Not trying to offense anyone by saying it sucks, but it just how I feel.
I think it would be nice and easier if they only say “Hello!” which I think that’s enough for a daily greeting, and nothing odd if there will be a silence after that.
How do I usually do?
Usually, I only answer “I’m well! (or good)” without re-asking how he/she was doing; THEREFORE, people at work thought I’m a shy quiet guy. Well, I don’t really like to talk without certain topic to generic people who are not really close to me. Don’t blame me…
How do I always start myself to greeting?
I never …
(j/k)
Usually, I only say “Hello” or “Yosh” and-or nodding my head.
As far as I can see, it only, and mostly happening in adult society. Teens tend to be more ignorance with the other, but still, not all of them are.
I’m not sure are they really enjoying that habit, or you can say a culture? Maybe; but I also think there are people who are in the same boat with me, those who are actually replying the
“How are you today?” with “I’m great, now leave me alone.”
So.. Halo, apa kabar teman? =D
Tags: culture, greeting, habit, people