Tuesday, August 14, 2012

Are Good Manners a Thing of the Past?

When was the last time you heard a young child or teen-ager say, “Yes, Ma’am,” or “Yes, Sir,” to an adult? It’s almost unheard of these days, isn’t it?

My husband and I were both brought up saying, “Yes, Sir,” and “No, Sir.” And we raised our five children to do the same. Once they could talk, these words were part of their vocabulary. No questions asked.

When I was old enough to go out on dates, every young man who came to my house spoke to my parents in this respectful way. If one of them hadn’t, my father would have educated him.

I’m told that, today, we’re fortunate if they speak at all... or if they come inside. The majority of them, I understand, drive up to the house, honk the horn, your daughter yells, “see ya’ later,” runs out to the car and they drive away, only to return in the same manner a few hours later – if you’re lucky.

How often do you see a man open a door for a woman? A car door? My husband still opens doors for me after many, many years of marriage. I appreciate it very much! I’d like to see all men do it, but don’t see many.

Oh, how I miss good manners! The bad thing is, just like good grammar, if it isn’t learned early, it may never be.

What’s the answer?

I wish I knew. As far as I can tell, these things aren’t being taught in schools, and with both parents working in many families, it’s difficult to find the time to teach children extras like this at home.

There must still be a few left though – here and there. Mr. H. and I went shopping today and just as we started in the door of a store, a little boy, about five, on the other side, opened the door for me before Mr. H. had a chance. I smiled and thanked him. He beamed, looking quite proud of himself. His mother, father – or both – are doing a good job with the young child. That’s unusual these days. Let’s hope it takes – and lasts throughout his life.

One thing is certain; the only way to receive respect ourselves is to show it to others.


 

10 comments:

luella said...

You're so right Peggy. I miss good manners to. Good post. luella

Anonymous said...

yep...

Jeanette R. said...

You probably made that little boy feel like a million dollars, Peg.. just smiling at him and thanking him. Praise does so much for kids. Teaches them right from wrong better than anything else. By the way, I'm a teacher. :)

charlie@hotmail.com said...

Your right Peggy. Manners are a thing of the past. People just don't care how they treat each other these days. When you meet a mannerly person your shocked!

sam said...

great post peg, as always... sam

Vernon Shields said...

that's why people text, you don't have to be courteous, and people can't hear you, to know how you really are. what happened to welcome wagon?

Rusty Bailey said...

So true Peggy!

Ethel Phalen Moses said...

The written word can get you into more hot water than you think.

Claire Swenson said...

I've noticed tho that in the south they are still much more courteous than up here. Some guy passed in front of me the other day and belched super loud. He looked embarrassed and said excuse me. I told him no. There is no excuse for that.

Peggy~ said...

You're right, Claire! Kudos to you for telling the clod "No."