Wave

I live in the land of the “Pennsylvania Deutsch nod”. This art form is very subtle and is most effective when two fellow devotees meet and synchronize their passing nods. Nodding can almost be imperceptible to newcomers or outsiders. I am sure the practice dates back generations. It is a very simple gesture. However, it takes a lot of insight and practice to detect and exercise it with proper dignity and just a touch of aloofness. It kind of reminds me of some of those creatures on the Discovery Channel that are committed to not wasting an ounce of unnecessary energy.



As you may surmise, the nod consists of making momentary eye contact while holding the head rigid except for a slight polite barely perceptible dip. The true masters of spotting this art are the auctioneers who can decipher these lightning-quick moves among their bidding clientele. However the most common form is a restrained form of greeting. It’s kind of like a secret fraternal handshake but a bit more widely practiced. Two practiced devotees can exercise this in unison in just a few seconds. They have done their proper duty and not had to utter a word or stray from their intended path. I guess it’s all about Pennsylvania Deutsch (German) efficiency.


I have become what I humbly consider a rather deft practitioner of the “nod.” It has served me well in many settings with a variety of folks, especially the seasoned ones. Lately, I am facing a bit of a dilemma. As I stroll along our country roads in the mornings, I am in danger of miscuing. I am OK with those coming out to get their morning paper, the kids at the school bus stop, and even other walkers and joggers. My problem is with the passing motorists—many of whom by protocol—I am expected to recognize and give a “nod.” I don’t know whether it is the rising sun on their windshields or their speed, but I have belatedly realized I’ve miss quite a few nods. That concerns me and hopefully won’t affect my standing in the neighborhood or community. Oh, I’ve caught some and returned some, but I’ve missed quite a few and actually delivered a few in error. It’s difficult when there is no expression or body language to go with it and my reflexes were never tops even when I was younger.


After some adequate reflection, I have come up with a remedy and am even taking the unheard of risk at being considered “forward”. I have started to wave and even slightly smile to each person I pass with no regard to whether they are “my friend.” I no longer have to squint and agonize over whether I missed acknowledging someone. You see, over a several week period I have developed a relationship with a lot of folks who now wave and smile when they see me plodding down the road. I guess they’re anticipating my now normal wave and slight smile. I believe each of our days have become a tiny bit more pleasant because of this small gesture. I know mine has. Most importantly, it’s something almost impossible for me to mess up socially. What a relief!


I look forward to seeing my new friends each morning. I may never have an opportunity speak a word to many of them but there is a bond beyond words. I don’t want to lose my skill at poker-faced “nodding” but am committed to saving it for very special occasions. For “everyday,” I think I’ll use that wave and a slight smile. It seems to be working quite well.