Summary

The author emphasizes the importance of simple human interaction, particularly the word "Hi," in brightening someone's day, drawing from personal experiences in Senior Living communities.

Abstract

The article "Why 'Hi' is My Favorite Word" delves into the author's habit of frequently greeting people with a "Hi," detailing the varied responses received from different individuals, with a particular focus on the positive reactions from children and seniors. The author shares a poignant encounter with a senior named Dave, who was moved to tears by the greeting, having felt unnoticed by others. This experience solidified the author's commitment to acknowledging others with a greeting, considering it a courteous and polite act that can significantly impact an individual's emotional well-being. The article serves as a reminder of the power of a simple greeting in fostering human connection and kindness.

Opinions

The author believes that saying "Hi" is a simple yet impactful way to connect with others and can evoke a range of emotions, from surprise to relief.
There is a sentiment that modern society often overlooks the basic courtesy of greeting one another, which the author aims to change by actively engaging in the practice.
The author holds that a greeting can make someone feel seen and acknowledged, which is especially meaningful in settings like Senior Living communities where residents may feel isolated or overlooked.
The personal story with Dave underscores the author's opinion that a greeting should not be underestimated; it can be a profound interaction for someone who feels invisible or forgotten.
The act of saying "Hi" is seen as a mission by the author, who advocates for its practice regardless of the frequency, to foster a more connected and polite society.

Why “Hi” is My Favorite Word

Smiles Often Follow

I say “Hi” a lot.

To everyone.

Sometimes more than once a day.

It’s amazing who responds and saddening who doesn’t. I find children and seniors respond most often. And in different ways.

Some with surprise. Some with caution. When they see it’s safe, they smile.

There is a backstory to my propensity to say “Hi” a lot.

My wife and I have worked in Senior Living communities for several years. Many of them have movie theaters right inside the building. The theater is an attraction itself, and there is often a marquee board with movie posters to share what’s playing that day or in the coming week.

“Hi,” I said to a resident, Dave, as he sat in front of the movie marquee one afternoon.

He turned his mobile scooter to the left to face me. I held my hand up in a stationary wave, as was my customary companion to my greeting.

He looked at me. Smiled. Waved. And started sobbing.

I got on a knee, so we were at eye level together.

“Dave, is everything okay?”

He took a moment. He looked into my face and said nobody had said “Hi” to him all day. I had already said “Hi” to him three times on this day. I guess he must’ve forgotten.

I haven’t forgotten. If I ever do, my greeting will seem like a first to me. I made it a mission to say “Hi” to people whenever I see them, whether once or twelve times a day.

“Hi,” with a smile and wave.

Too many people don’t greet people these days. Isn’t it courteous? Polite?

Saying “Hi” could make a difference in someone’s day. It did for Dave.

If I see you, I’ll smile and raise my hand. And say “Hi.”