Handshakes, high-fives, and change

Years ago, Elysha told me that she was bringing back the high-five.

I’m not sure if she made any cultural impact, but she’s certainly done her part, high-fiving with enthusiasm for years.

Then the pandemic arrived, and for months, I heard people state with absolute certainty that the handshake and the high five were dead. Never to return again. The pandemic had finally put an end to the archaic practice of touching one another.

Even when I pointed out that the same thing was said in 1918 during the last global pandemic, and even after I cited articles in the newspaper archives saying as much, I was assured that this time would be different because… well, I guess because we think we’re somehow more intelligent or more sophisticated or more special than our predecessors.

Even as the pandemic continues, thanks in part to the ignorant and the unvaccinated, handshaking has already begun its comeback, faster than most expected because the coronavirus is airborne. Transfer via physical objects is not our problem.

Hands included.

Despite the assurances of many that Americans would soon be adopting the Japanese tradition of bowing as a form of greeting, I have yet to see a single American bow to me or anyone else.

Change is slow, difficult, oftentimes backsliding, and sometimes impossible.

Look at the New England Patriots:

Given up for dead last year following the departure of the traitorous Tom Brady and a season riddled with pandemic opt-outs and a change at quarterback. Exactly one year later, the Patriots once again are in first position in the AFC East and own the best record in their conference. Turns out that coaches, staff, ownership, and those 52 other players have a role in the success of a team, too.

Much to the disappointment of the rest of the league and their fans, the Patriots, like the handshake, are already back.

As for the high five?

Pluto and I are doing our part.