How to respond to ‘May the fourth be with you’

In a universe where Wookiees roar, lightsabers hum, and the Force flows, there exists a day that unites fans across star systems: May the 4th. But why this date? It’s not just a random alignment of celestial bodies; it’s a playful pun. You see, “May the fourth” sounds eerily similar to the iconic phrase: “May the Force be with you.” So, whether you’re a Jedi Knight, a Sith Lord, or just a casual admirer of droids and starships, let’s explore the origins of this cosmic holiday and discover how to respond when someone greets you with those magical words.

But how did it evolve from a movie quote to a global celebration?

The answer lies in an unexpected place: British politics. On May 4, 1979, Margaret Thatcher became Britain’s first woman prime minister. To congratulate her, the Conservative Party placed an ad in the London Evening News. The message? “May The Fourth Be With You, Maggie. Congratulations.” And just like that, the phrase entered the collective consciousness, thanks to the power of the internet and fans spanning star systems.

How to Respond: A Playful Exchange

When someone greets you with “May the fourth be with you,” you have several delightful options:

“And also with you”: Echo the traditional Catholic liturgical greeting. It’s a playful twist on the original phrase and adds a touch of humor.

“I know”: If you want to channel your inner Han, and feel cool about it, this is an author favorite.

“May the Force be with us all”: Stay true to the Star Wars theme. Imagine the cosmic Force enveloping everyone, from Ewoks to protocol droids.

“Thank you”: Sometimes simplicity is best. A straightforward “thank you” works perfectly as a polite acknowledgment of the greeting.

“May the odds always be in your favor”: Combine Star Wars with a nod to The Hunger Games. It’s a fun way to mix fandoms!

“Hurray!”: Express your excitement and join in the celebration with an enthusiastic “hurray!”

Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, so choose the response that resonates with you. And if you’re feeling extra festive, consider having a Star Wars movie marathon or catching up on some of the new series made by Disney.