Just Wave

As a frequent runner I find there are some unspoken rules of the trails. Rules that not everyone adheres to, rules which should have some sort of government oversight. Even if it’s just at the state level, county maybe? You see when these rules are not followed it can be well, a bit awkward. Some of these rules include running shirtless. Come on. It’s never too hot that you can’t don a thin layer of mesh, just put something on. Same goes with wearing shorts that don’t cover at least 50% of your thighs or are split up the side to provide freedom of movement I suppose, ventilation? I don’t know, but it’s too much. Also bikers….. don’t get me started on bikers, at least the “serious” ones. Countless times I’ve been startled from my well paced and rhythmic reverie by someone shouting,“On your left”! Dude, chill out. So, those to name a few, but the most vexing one I find is anticipating the wave.

I find myself experiencing a undue amount of anxiety when I see a fellow runner in the distance, always anticipating the awkward situation of presenting my non-verbal greeting as they pass by. Should I initiate the very benign salutation or wait. I don’t want to hesitate too long and have them miss it, be the person that doesn’t reciprocate. I also don’t want to seem too eager and jump the gun, especially if I, god forbid, don’t get the friendly wave back. When you put yourself out there and you don’t get that wave back it hurts, deep down. You wouldn’t think so, it does seem pretty innocuous. But it’s just the principle of the thing.

I find that middle-aged men are the most likely to give the wave as they go by. I guess I can count myself now in that demographic, as I’m creeping my way closer to 40. Yea those guys are pretty much a sure bet.
Everyone else is kind of 50/50. Either they don’t understand or were never made aware of the tradition. I don’t know, but I propose a change.

And also I’m talking about runners out on an established running trail. A place where people frequent to get their exercise in. I’m not talking about waving to every stranger you pass on the side of the road or around the corner from your house. Making people be decent to each other all the time… let’s not get carried away here.

So in conclusion, if it’s not too much trouble just fucking wave. And I’ll wave back.