Where Dr. Fauci is Wrong

"As a society, just forget about shaking hands...We don't need to shake hands. We've got to break that custom.” -Dr. Anthony Fauci, M.D., NIAID Director, April 2020

Say it ain’t so, Dr. Fauci! You had my vote locked for People’s Man of the Year...until now. Still a fan, but with reservations. Yours is not a simple assertion based on germ science. It ignores the science of human connection and the vitality of traditional communication.

Among the most meaningful life and career advice came to me from Martin H. Stockdale, a decorated WWII Navy officer, who happened to be my uncle. He was a tall and slender man with a firm, yet friendly, voice, who’s hair never thinned (not even when he reached his final age of 97). And he was a man of honor.

By the time I was 10 years old, Uncle Stocky had me in training for the perfect handshake. Every time I’d see him, we’d practice getting the grip just right. “No limp wrist, Suzanne!” he would say. It had to be firm, but not crushing; structured, but not rigid. This continued for years, until I finally got it right. Thanks to Uncle Stocky, I had a handshake that rivaled anyone in Honolulu...especially for a 15-year-old.

The tradition of the handshake dates back as early as 5th Century BC Greece. Throughout centuries, world leaders, educators, friends, and business people alike have used their handshake as a symbol of good faith; a seal of commitment; a sign of respect. It’s a ritual, a custom, and an act of peace. And it will not go away.

Today, I still marvel at the surprised reactions of people (particularly men) who take notice when we shake hands. No question, this carefully honed communication skill has set a meeting in the right direction and closed a discussion with promise.  

Once this pandemic is behind us, you'll have the right to politely decline my handshake if you’re squeamish about a little human contact. Or better yet, carry hand sanitizer.

Who’s with me?