Verbal shorthand. It’s efficient… until you start using “How are you” in place of “Hey.”
Similar problems in our current society comes from using “@#$%” (you know what I mean) in place of any random noun or adjective (depending on what dirty word you just thought of)
Or in marriage, when you become careless with your thought and time, and “I love you” takes the place of “How was your day” or “Hey” or “Have a great day at work.” or “How did I stomp on your feelings without realizing?”
Verbal shorthand. Like most things, it’s a strength and a weakness.
such “lovely” people…
OK, bed tomorrow. Now let’s go get some Alpo! I’ll wag my tail for you.
see, it’s nonsense like that that makes me the supposed cantankerous ol frump that i seem to be.
i just give a nice polite hello and keep it to that unless pressed for more. gawd i hate when they press for more. [shudder]
human interaction. oi.
well, on the up side, i’m obviously too old for people to just reach out and grab any more. no more cheeks stretched for miles or hugs from strange, unpleasant smelling people. [another shudder]
i rather like that part of getting old.
See? I TOLE you it was much nicer when people just walk by and ignore you.
Alpo, all I can think of is the Iowa City Pizza Scandal…..