Politeness

Politeness seems like a lost element of our society today. Rudeness is an art. How many rude things can I say to someone today before noon? Chivalry has lost its appeal and manners are something kids read about in Laura Ingalls Wilder books, if they're lucky enough to have parents who care enough to read to them. I saw this article in Real Simple magazine that had a "top 20" list of why we should be polite to people. I wanted to share them, not because I think any of my three readers are impolite or rude, but because these reasons made me think about myself and how I handle situations on an everyday basis. I challenge you to consider your words, actions, and even body language next time you're dealing with someone. Here are the 20 reasons. Some of them are no-brainers. But some of them really made me pause. Though they may not all be relevant any more, they're worth reading. Because, maybe they should be.

Be polite to someone because . . .

1. They are older.

2. They know more than you do.

3. They know less than you do.

4. They got here first.

5. They have educational qualifications in the subject under discussion.

6. You are in their house.

7. They once helped you financially.

8. They have been good to you all your life.

9. They are less fortunate than you.

10. They have achieved special status in the wider world.

11. You are serving them in a shop.

12. They are in the right.

13. They are your boss.

14. They work for you.

15. They are a policeman/teacher/doctor/judge.

16. They are in need.

17. They are doing you a favor.

18. They paid for the tickets.

19. You phoned them, not the other way around.

20. They have a menial job.

Think about it.

Excerpted from Talk to the Hand: The Utter Bloody Rudeness of Everyday Life (or Six Good Reasons to StayHome and Bolt the Door), by Lynne Truss