A Proper Greeting

I love the seductive language of the Mexican people. It is composed of soothing vowel sounds and virtually no hard consonants. Not only is it pleasant to hear spoken or sung, but it is relatively easy and inviting to learn. The language enjoys an underlying repetitive structure which eludes my native tongue (English).  Spanish provides a pleasant conduit to encase communication.

Eye contact, while a non-verbal form of communication, serves as a universal invitation to verbal communication. No eye contact between approaching individuals; no communication sought. It’s an issue of engagement comfort level. The Spanish language offers numerous simple, yet subtle solutions.

Hola

This is the basic greeting extended by all, children and adults. One might argue that it is also employed by the local canine corp. as travelers hike along local pathways. It requires minimal response, either in-kind or with a simple nod of the head punctuated with eye contact.    

Hola amigo

This greeting defines the first step up the ladder of friendship. It is issued by/to someone that you recognize from an earlier encounter. You need not know the individual’s name. This simply identifies someone you have seen previously.

Hola mi amigo

Stepping further up the ladder, this greeting comes into play when you have previously interacted with an individual. Perhaps they assisted you with your luggage; perhaps they are a waiter at a restaurant you have visited more than once; perhaps they are a panguero (panga owner) you helped on the beach.     

Hola, buenos dias/buenas tardes/buenas noches

At the top of our greeting step-stool we introduce the subtlety of imparting respect.” Hola” followed by inclusion of the appropriate timing of the day is employed when greeting someone your chronological senior or when entering any space occupied by numerous adults (e.g. market, home, a bench on the pier, etc.).

Shaking hands is a custom not observed in Yelapa, except between ex-pats. If/when you are accepted by the locals as a reasonable American (oxymoron?), you will be invited to share in the ritual of the local hand bump.  This is an honor few achieve.

Yelapans are an intelligent and welcoming people. They understand that guests provide financial sustenance during the high season and fund their required reserves during the five months of oppressive summer heat. Meet them, greet them.  You now possess a ten word vocabulary intended to enhance your Yelapa experience. Buenas suerte!

Commercial Break

Dolphins returned to the bay this morning to frolic in the placid waters. They also extracted pre-selected bite-sized fish for their own consumption.  Come to Yelapa, join in frolicking with the fauna, the fish and the fabulous kayaking experience only Memo can guarantee. Hasta luego!

PS

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