Verbal greetings: Simple and personal: “Good to see you, cousin” or “Blessings to your family” Polite, inclusive phrases: “Peace be with you” or “Welcome, friend” In some contexts, a mix of languages: Mi’kmaq “Kwe’” (hello) with French “Bonjour” or English “Hello” Physical gestures: Handshakes, light bows, or head nods depending on the community and setting Embracing or touching forearms among close relatives Offering food, drink, or a shared item as a greeting Tone and style: Respectful and relational rather than formal or rigid Flexible—able to adapt depending on who they were greeting (family, neighbors, or newcomers) Often expressed interest in the other’s wellbeing: “How fares your household?”