Every day, I seem to be ecstatically greeting the people who surround me. Some greetings display a subtle wave and a bright smile, while some are more excited and enthusiastic. No matter who I am saying hello to, however, there is one thing that I always attempt to say. I don't say it all the time, such as when I'm walking through my dorm, exhausted, or when I'm in a rush to class, not even thinking about it. But I do make a conscious effort. “Hi, (fill-in-the-blank).” I believe that a hello should always have a name as its sidekick.
My parents raised me in compassion, selflessness, and love, allowing me to discover the importance of living for the well-being of others. Sometimes, however, I get lost in myself. As I speed walk through my busy, crowded campus, thoughts whirl through my brain. The countless students around me create a mundane surrounding from which my consciousness can easily escape. Inside myself, I am overcome with the stress of my imminent biology test and the anxiety over how on earth I will be able to manage my time between class, studying, research, and extracurriculars. I am in my own little world, sinking in my overwhelming thoughts, until suddenly, I am awakened by a reticent but firm voice. “Hi, Kate,” I hear as I jerk my head upwards and frantically move my eyes to discover where the noise came from.
Unfortunately, I miss my greeter amidst the sea of students; however, something about my manner has changed. My head is erect, I am alert, and I am smiling. Not only did the person say hello, but she also said my name. As simple as it sounds, hearing my name draws me out of my preoccupied state and lets me know that someone cares to connect with me in a personal way, something that a simple “hi” cannot achieve. I, therefore, understand the ability of a name to pull someone back into reality after he or she has so easily disappeared into the microcosm of the mind.
It is impossible for me to comprehend the inner struggles of each person. When I say “Hi!” followed by a name, it is my way of letting another know that I have a desire to connect with him or her on an intimate level. It is my way of saying, “I care for you,” and, “I want to draw you out of whatever trouble you might be in.” My greeting is my own fishing pole that helps me reel people out of the ocean of their burdens, even if just for a moment.
