When I wave you wave... just like that.

You’ve been there. Driving along a backroad, minding your own business, and you see someone approaching from the other direction. Maybe it’s a stranger, maybe a neighbor. Instinct kicks in—you lift your hand off the wheel and give them “the wave.” And just like that, a connection is made.

But have you ever wondered why we wave? Who decided that raising a hand or wiggling some fingers was a way to say, “I see you, and I acknowledge your existence.” Well, I did some digging.

There are a few interesting theories about how waving started. Some say it dates back to ancient times, when knights on horseback would raise their hands to show they weren’t holding a weapon—a friendly gesture meaning, “Hey, I come in peace. Please don’t stab me.”

Others believe it stems from the military salute. Soldiers lifted visors to show their faces to a superior—again, to indicate trust and recognition. Over time, the wave evolved into a universal gesture... and here we are.

But there's something that drives me a little crazy about waving, or actually, not waving, and I'm curious if I'm alone on this. When I’m driving my truck, folks are way more likely to wave back at me compared to when I’m in my Toyota Highlander. What’s up with that?

I think there's something about a truck that seems to invite acknowledgment from other drivers. Maybe it’s because a truck hints at someone who works with their hands—a rancher, a farmer, a builder, or someone hauling something important. A truck says, “Hey, I’m part of the hardworking, salt-of-the-earth crowd.” And when you drive one, you’re part of an unspoken brotherhood (or sisterhood) of “truck people.” Even strangers feel obligated to lift a hand in solidarity.

On the other hand, my Highlander? It’s dependable, practical, and environmentally friendly. But I swear it sends out the vibe: “This person probably shops at Trader Joe’s and owns reusable tote bags.” Okay, fine, guilty as charged - and it also makes a special annoying hybrid sound - LIKE A GIANT DUSTBUSTER - that drives my friend's dogs into a hybrid attacking frenzy. Whether people assume I’m not the type to be hauling hay or fixing fence posts in my spare time, the same driver who waves at my truck has been known to stare right through me when I’m cruising in the hybrid. Things that make me go hmmm.

NEXT!!!

A wave is more than just flapping your hand in the air—it’s communication. And often, it’s better than words. We can go from "Hello, friend!" to "Whoops... my bad!". Sometimes it's a "I see you girl!" and even "“Bye forever…or until I awkwardly run into you again at the grocery store.” It’s short, sweet, and universally understood, crossing language barriers. I love that.

Turns out, not all waves are created equal. Depending on the situation, location, or your personality, the wave you choose may vary. You've likely read the posts on the Book of Faces that talks about the different types of waves - everything from a "Hey" to "How's your mom & them?".

But there's also the two-finger lift - Popular among drivers on rural roads. No need to lift the whole hand—just two fingers off the steering wheel says, “Hey, neighbor.” Simple. Subtle. Efficient.

Then there's the full hand - A big, open-palmed wave, often used when you're passing someone on foot or at the farmers market. It says, “I'm friendly and possibly over-caffeinated."

Sometimes, you just need to shake two fingers - BUT, fingers only, no arm movement. Often seen when you're trying to maintain coolness.

Lastly, the reverse wave - This is the over-the-head, back-facing wave, usually done when walking away. This is the one we use when trying to leave awkward conversations without being rude.

If you’ve lived in a small town or spent time in the country, you have to wave. It’s the law. (Okay, not officially, but try ignoring someone’s wave and see how long it takes for gossip to spread.) I can't tell you how many times I've yelled (to no one but myself "UGH!!!! WHY WON'T YOU JUST WAVE BACK?!?!?!? WHAT IS WRONG WITH PEOPLE AROUND HERE?!"

We live in a world of texts & emails with stressful meetings in between—a wave is refreshingly simple. No agenda, no obligation. Just a quick, easy gesture that says, “Hey, I see you.”

So next time you’re driving down the road, sitting on your porch, or leaving work, give a wave. Maybe even try out a new style—throw in a head nod, or experiment with a fancy finger waggle. It might feel small, but that wave could be the highlight of someone’s day.

Because at the end of the day, what’s in a wave? Connection. And we (social butterflies) could always use more of that. (And a hug. We are also totally down for a good hug.)

Love & Light