Thursday, October 16, 2008

Courtesy Is No Longer Common

Why do I think that? Because it actually surprises and delights me now when children and young adults (and some older adults, too) actually know how to show courtesy and appreciation. The three basic phrases of politesse - "Please", "Thank you", "You're welcome" are words that you just do not hear as often as before, never mind its other, deeper manifestations.

Gratitude is a concept that is seemingly alien to this generation who thinks that every thing is owed to them by their relatives, friends and the world. I think all this fight for rights in the last few decades has gone to an extreme and done a number on the minds of many people, especially the young. Therefore, when others give of their time and themselves, they think it is just within their right to receive it with nary a thought of appreciation or worse, giving back. Miss Manners does not seem to have a whole lot of influence these days.

A person who takes for granted the good that is always done to them will miss out on a great deal in life. After all, who wants to hang around with someone who just takes and takes, be it time-wise, emotionally or financially? Yes, it can be a joy to give but it sure gets old when you're being bled dry.

Those three basic phrases are simple enough to utter - but it sure can go a long way if people learn how to use them.

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