Shaking Hands
(and other rituals)

Why is it that people always shake hands
when they meet upon the street?
Why isn't shaking their noses or ears
the proper way to greet?

Why do people shake and nod
their heads for yes and no?
Why not wiggle their belly buttons,
or tickle their own toe?

Why do people raise their hands
when they want to give an answer?
Why not shout or spit or pout
or spin 'round like a dancer?

Where did people learn these rituals?
In Iceland or Hong Kong?
Who was the first to try them out,
and how did they catch on?

Well, it's time for me to go,
so it's time to wave goodbye.
My hand is wobbling in the air,
but I'm still not quite sure why.


(C) 1998, Arden Davidson