i am what you read

I was eating lunch with my daughter and the person at the door didn’t welcome us. Didn’t smile at all. Walked us to our seat and walked away. Later on, we went to a book store and while I was in line to order at their cafe I noticed an older woman and a child with her waiting where you pick up your order. When her drink was given to her the gentleman asked if she would like a straw and her response made me shake my head. She said, “well, obviously”. She then took her straw and inquired about the snack ordered, which another person handed her and the two walked away. No thank you or anything. All I could do is shake my head with both annoyance and great sadness.

Two things popped into my head at that point. No manners and no example.

The hostess could have been having a bad day. She may not like her job. She may have thought we didn’t belong there. No matter her reason, she should have respect for the people who choose to dine in that establishment. She sets the tone for their meal and entire experience when they enter the doors. She is essentially paid to smile and greet people nicely.

Manners are no longer something people use. Perhaps worse…not taught. I know I have lived most of my life in the south, but that is absolutely no excuse for not having them or common courtesy.

I have always said to live my the golden rule. Do unto others as you’d have them do unto you. And have taught my children to be the example and not the exception. Young people learn from everyone, not just who they are with.

So, please, I urge you to be the example and not the exception.

Eyes and ears are everywhere!