Someone definitely brought the idea of handshakes and such a person should be celebrated. Handshakes show comradeship; it evokes a sense of familiarity; it makes strangers familiar; makes friends families and families friends.
The coming of the dreaded Coronavirus has however change the tide. What we so cherish has now become a ‘foe’ of some sort. Indeed, the instinct and the need to survive beats all manners of chivalry.
When a Nigerian Governor was recorded ‘shaking legs’ with his deputy, many saw such gesture as a comic relief amidst the Coronavirus epidemic. Maybe the Governor had that in mind but he surreptitiously passed a clear message to the people- Don’t shake hands in the era of the dreaded Coronavirus. It is however in our hands to decide which way to establish a mutual way of physically expressing our ‘comradeship’or ‘affection?’.
Many countries across the world have even advised citizens to avoid the ‘dear’ handshakes in this period. In Beijing, for instance, people are urged to join their own hands together to signal greetings; Experts in France appear to be more critical. Lifestyle expert, Philippe Lichtfus, opined that barely looking at people already connotes greeting. Not until you shake hands. Attempting to kiss on the cheek is being preached against at this point and such advise should be taken ‘wholeheartedly’.
The rapid spread of the dreaded COVID-19 certainly has the capacity to change some of our age-old mannerisms. Handshakes; Kissing on the cheeks; Hugging among others are becoming our foes. ‘Leg shaking’ might not be the solution but simply waving; shaking of heads; jamming of elbows; ‘just’ looking; a nice thumbs up; or a broad sweet smile could replace the ‘traditional’ handshakes.
Don’t forget, At critical times; we take critical measures.
