The way we greet people says something about us, as does our response. Admittedly, this is something I’ve probably thought about more than a person should.

The question, “how are you?” seems almost an impossible one to me at times. Do they mean mentally, emotionally, physically, spiritually, all the above? Is this some sort of exam? And am I really the best person to judge how I am in any one of those categories at any given moment? It could be I’m doing very poorly in some way, but I tend to feel better when around people so I’ll probably still say I’m fine. I don’t think I’ve ever told someone I was terrible, it’s almost like saying I myself am a terrible person, which, may be true at times, but I’m not just throwing it out there on a regular old Monday morning.

Granted, most people are really just giving a casual hello and don’t care much to hear what state you or I am in. But I do enjoy hearing different and unique responses people give. For example, there’s a guy I’ve seen on my usual morning jog who always answers, “It’s a beautiful day,” with a lovely British accent, of course. And then I have a coworker whose response is, “fantastic, as always.” I’ll be honest, I find that one impressive. I even know a pastor who is, “stable and upright.” Two good things to be.

Then again, some people are just, “tired” or “busy” all the time. Some are just, “good” or “alright.” I myself try to avoid saying, “good” as I’ve been reminded only Superman does good. I wonder what Batman does? Kicks butt, that’s what. I suppose that’s what he’d say if someone asked him.

How are you doing Batman? 

Oh, you know, kicking butt, as always, because I’m Batman.

As for me? I’m still working on a good one that’s honest and not totally cheesy (not to say I don’t love cheese, because, hey, I really do). How about you, do you have a particular greeting you like to give or one you’ve enjoyed hearing? Do tell.