Curiouser and Curiouser

BB-2: Mind Your Manners!

The Red Queen insists on Alice having manners around her. What sort of rules/manners/common courtesies would you like to see more of these days? (<500 words)

I think that the thing I miss most is greeting people. I know. Six feet and masks. I acknowledge the necessity. But I miss the hugs that I used to get when I met someone again after an absence.

When I went to church before masks, I was greeted by smiles (which are now hidden—I've gotten used to reading eyes) and hugs, but now, we don't even touch hands after both of us have used hand sanitizer. Instead, we give virtual hugs (if I could, I'd hug you. Put your arms around you and pretend it's me). One friend offers his elbow, which we wave at each other as though shaking hands.

Masks make it more difficult to talk. I rely on the shape of words on people's mouths to help me understand them, when my ears are too slow. And so I'm stuck in this new world where it feels like people aren't even acknowledging my existence anymore.

And I miss that.

I wish there was some way to greet each other safely and warmly.

I miss touch.

word count: 179