I know things evolve and change over time, but some things should never change—especially manners. It costs nothing to have impeccable manners. In my opinion, it shows class. Sure, the world moves fast, technology advances, and social norms shift, but good manners are like a little black dress—always in style.
Having manners is a dying art, at least in my opinion. When I was young, we were raised to say please and thank you. If you walked through a door you had to open, you held it for the person behind you—whether young or old, male or female. If someone opened and held a door for you, you always said, “thank you.”
When in a crosswalk, if a vehicle stopped for you, you gave a smile and a little wave to thank them. (However, if a vehicle didn’t stop for you, political correctness goes right out the window, and they get the “one-fingered salute” from me!)
Elbows weren’t allowed on the table. No hats of any kind (not even those little beanies that seem to be popular everywhere nowadays) were worn when at the table. I know I’m dating myself, but good manners never go out of style.
You may not be the most educated person in the room (not that being well-educated is a sign of class), but if you have impeccable manners, it puts you heads and tails above the rest. Politeness never goes out of fashion, but apparently, it’s out of stock for some.
I don’t care who the person is, what their race is, or what their job is—everyone deserves to be treated with respect. I treat the custodian at a company the same way I treat the president of the company. The only difference, in my mind, is that you have different jobs and may have had different advantages growing up.
For Pete’s sake, I even say please, thank you, excuse me, bless you, and I’m sorry to my dogs! The more you practice it, the more it becomes a habit.
There is nothing more unclassy than a person without manners. I lose a little respect for that person. It’s like they think they are better than everyone else and don’t need to use manners. Entitlement isn’t impressive, no matter how many zeroes you have in your bank account.
I was a child of the 60s and a teenager in the 70s, hence I grew up listening to Gloria Steinem. (For you young’uns, you will probably have to Google and read about her. You might learn a thing or two.) She was nationally recognized as the leader of second-wave feminism in the U.S. in the late 60s and early 70s. She believed that women had the right to do what they wanted and when. She believed in a woman’s right to an abortion.
Back in my day, we had to call everyone Mr. and Mrs. So-and-So. That’s one tradition I’m glad to see go. I prefer being called by my first name. If I were to be called anything else (at least to my face), I preferred Ms. over Miss. In my whole married life, I went by Ms., not Mrs. I’ve never really liked Mrs. I always felt that the Mrs. in the family was my mother-in-law.
We were taught when walking toward someone, even a stranger, to smile. Manners and kindness go a long way. You never know when a smile or a thank you can make someone’s day.
Common Acts of Good Manners We Need More Of:
- Holding the Door Open: It costs nothing, but it’s such a simple act of kindness. And yes, saying “thank you” afterward is non-negotiable.
- Acknowledging People: A smile or nod when you pass someone on the street. It’s not that hard, folks.
- Saying ‘Please’ and ‘Thank You’: Whether you’re ordering coffee or asking a favour, basic politeness should never go out of style.
- Apologizing When Necessary: Not every apology needs to be a dramatic soliloquy. A simple “I’m sorry” works wonders.
- Listening Without Interrupting: Seriously, let someone finish their thought before jumping in with yours. It’s not a race.
- Respecting Personal Space: Giving people their space and not invading it shows courtesy.
- Responding to Invitations: Whether it’s a party or a simple get-together, responding promptly is simply good manners.
- Practicing Good Table Manners: Chewing with your mouth closed, using utensils properly, and not talking with your mouth full—simple but often neglected.
- Respecting Quiet Spaces: Lowering your voice in libraries, hospitals, or any place where peace is expected.
- Letting People Off Elevators First: Simple, but so often ignored. Let folks get out before you barrel in.
- Returning Borrowed Items: Whether it’s a book, a tool, or even a pen—giving back what you borrowed is just basic decency.
- Respecting Other People’s Time: If you’re running late, at least have the courtesy to let the person know.
- Chewing Gum Politely: For the love of all things decent, don’t chew gum like a cow chewing its cud or snap it like you’re trying to break a world record. No one needs to hear that smacking and popping.
Maybe I’m old-fashioned, but I’ll take old-fashioned manners over new-fangled rudeness any day. After all, good manners are free, and you’d think more people would want to show a little class.
Okay, well this (mostly) classy, old broad is signing off.
And, as Tigger would say “TTFN, Ta, Ta, for now!”