This reminds me of an interesting difference in language semantics when I moved from the UK to the Bay area. In the UK it's normal to say "alright?" as if to say hello. I found people would respond "why wouldn't I be?" or something along those lines as if they looked like they weren't OK. It interests me as I find in the UK we are less likely to talk about feelings than in the US.
also works in at least french, german, and spanish.
(I think the big dividing line between cultures is whether it's surprising or not to answer with full sentences how one is doing upon being asked "alright?")
