Bob, Bob, Bobbin’ Along

Bowing is a constant, all day, aerobic activity here. It has become so ingrained, so second nature, I highly suspect that it will take several years to get out of the habit when I finally leave here. My neck and back are going to be so strong! Bowing is the Aloha of physical pleasantries – you bow at hello, at goodbye, at thank you, for your welcome, at inexplicable, random times during exchanges, which I haven’t figured out yet but just about anything can set it off. When someone bows, you’re almost obligated to bow back. Bowing erases mistakes – if you want to walk right out into moving traffic, just stick your hand up and bow your head as you step off the curb. If you commit a traffic gaff, just nod your head a couple of times in the direction of the wronged motorist; most likely, he is then too occupied returning your head bob to get really angry. One thing though, Gaijin are judged by the sincerity of their bows – no casual, off center, rushed head bobs allowed. If you’re bowing, make every one count! 🙂