Saying “Hi” Goes A Long Way

Today, June 11, 2025, is National Say “Hi” Day. I’d like to celebrate it by telling you, my peeps in blog nation, “Hi!” and I hope you are having an amazing day!

I love it when someone tells me, “Hi!” Whether it comes from a stranger or someone I know, when those two letters form that warm little greeting, it’s so nice.

Have you ever had a bad day, and then someone walked past and said, “Hi.”? Did it make you feel better? It makes me feel better! A simple hello means you’re acknowledging my presence. Often, if you have a disability, people overlook you. I know this may have to do with a lack of awareness but saying nothing at all is simply rude in my book.

Knowing this, I’ll extend a “Hi” to anyone, especially if I sense the person is uncomfortable about how to address me. You wouldn’t believe how well it opens the door of communication. A “Hi” can take a negative assumption of someone and turn into a positive. Believe me when I say I’ve seen the difference it can make.

Of all the people I encounter, kids are the most likely group to tell me “Hi” without hesitation. Most kids don’t judge – but they are curious. So, I encourage parents to allow their children to extend a greeting to people with disabilities. Overall, our community wants young people to know that having a disability is a part of life and there’s nothing to be alarmed about. It’s my hope that my positive interactions with kids will help break down barriers, so maybe one day they will become advocates who spread a message of inclusion.

Another thing I like about the word “Hi” is that’s it’s universal. You can go anywhere in the world and this little word needs no translation. Although it may be spoken in a different language, everyone understands it.

I hope you’ll follow my lead and tell someone “Hi” today, and make it count. Life can be draining and stressful. In my 52 years, I’ve learned everyone needs encouragement to make it in the world today.

Topics like this are why I love blogging. Saying “Hi” is so simple, but it can mean so much! This small gesture can let someone know their existence is being acknowledged and that they matter. If you need a place to begin? Start with your girl! I’d love to get a “Hi” from you, so be sure to leave me one in the comments. A big thank you in advance for your greeting.