Tuesday, June 14, 2011

A pea-sized post on politeness


Just a few words about how much we take manners for granted.  How often do we notice when someone is polite?  We don't.  We only notice when they are impolite.  We go through our day, please this, thank-you that, but never really realize how important these few extra words really are.  I realized it today with a person I can in contact with that they lacked manners of any sort.  In fact, they were down right sarcastic, rude and manner-less. 

First, what does being polite mean?  WikiHow says:" Being polite is all about being considerate and appreciative, but for many people, it remains a challenge." 
Merriam-Webster defines it as " marked by an appearance of consideration, tact, deference, or courtesy."
Being polite to me means treating others with respect at all times, even when we don't feel like it.

We teach our children please and thank you from their first years of life.  Somehow, we seem to forget to practice our teachings when we deal with everyday life situations.   They best thing to do when others forget their manners is to be as polite and kind to them as possible.  Kill them with kindness, turn the other cheek and don't forget to smile!


Do you have story about a time when you were not treated with respect, kindness and courtesy?  Feel free to share them!

Please have a wonderful day.  Thank you for reading!

5 comments:

Donna McDine said...

Ahhh, politeness intertwines with common courtesy such as holding a door open for someone. Recently coming out of store I held the door behind me for the person behind me, but the person ahead of me let the next door slam shut on me. Rude.

When I go on my daily walk I make sure I say hello to all that pass me. Many times people smile back and say hello, but unfortunately others ignore.

Best wishes,
Donna

Mom Does Reviews said...

Donna,
Thanks for sharing your story! I live in NH, I find that people in general are more polite and courteous in the south! My husband was born and raised in FL, he was taught to say yes Ma'am, No sir, hold doors, etc. We don't see that up here.
Keep smiling and thanks for commenting!

BarbaraB said...

Pam,
I deplore the rude bad manners that I see from time to time. Sometimes you can tell where it's coming from if a child is rude and the parent is also rude.
The delima I see is, how can the next generation be polite when the parents themselves are rude?
Of course, it's probably a small minority (I hope), but they are the ones you are aware of.

Anonymous said...

When I was a teenager I moved to CA from Texas. My friend got in an argument with her mom. No big deal. I argued with mine, but she cussed at her. It blew my mind. I couldn't believe it.

The whole time I lived in CA my friend's parents loved me, because I always said yes ma'am and no sir.

I might have cussed my mom in my mind, but NEVER would have aloud.I still wouldn't and I'm 40.


Blessings,
J. Aday Kennedy
The Differently-Abled Writer & Speaker
Children's Author of Stella the Fire Farting Dragon (April 2011)
http://jadaykennedy.blogspot.com

Mom Does Reviews said...

J. Aday,
I know, my son's friends parents love him because he is so polite, learned it from his Daddy!
Thanks for sharing!
Happy Blogging!

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