Hello! How Are You?

Have you ever noticed
When people say, "Hello"They ask,
"How are you"
Then on their way they go

They wait not for an answer
And they don't seem to care
So let me ask you this
Why was the question there

I know it's a formality
To many folks today
They think it is polite
And the only thing to say

I don't think they understand
The damage that this does
When asked why they do it
They simply answer, "Because"

Some don't even realize
That they even do it
They think they'll listen later
When they get around to it

If someone approached you today
And asked, "How's your friend"
Would you have an answer
Or would you stutter to an end

When you say, "How are you"
Is that simply an extension of "Hi"
Or do you really want to know
What's going to be their reply

It's been said of acquaintances
That they just say it and go
But friends will always wait
So your wellness they can know

But may I share this observance
That I have found so true
A BEST friend already knows
When he asks, "How are you"