Wednesday, March 3, 2010

Manners: Where are they?



Today, I took a figurative look through my daughter’s eyes at the people who we encounter every day. I have worked hard to instill manners, values and an unbreakable foundation in my daughter. But looking around today I see so many individuals, old and young alike, who are lacking the basic fundamentals of life. The main one that I am referring to is courtesy! As I walked down the corridors, I did what I am accustom to doing; I looked each person in the eye, and either nodding my head and gave a gracious smile (if they were talking but made eye contact with me) or I said hello. Out of the maybe 20 people (estimate) I passed only 7 bothered to give a gesture in return!

This is sad! Looking back I use to get so upset when my daughter was younger. She would speak to individuals and some would ignore her. I can remember thinking to myself "what kind of person does not speak to a child". But as time has went on my daughter continues to speak even without a response, even though I can tell that it bothers her sometimes when the greeting is not delivered in return.

Once again, my daughter has taught me to continue speaking. But how ironic I just begin to take note of how people now are so distant, even when a greeting is sent their way. It makes me wonder, am I teaching my daughter an OLD rule that needs to be modified based on today's society?

10 comments:

Anonymous said...

You are quite rite that most adults don't have manners, so how are half of them gonna teach manners to there kids. Onething I hate most is when a child speaks to an adult out of courtesy they look at them like they are speaking Spanish but when they kids speak and the same happening to there child they beginning to swear....If you gonna teach your kids manner, teach them all the ways to it not just speaking

Anonymous said...

I say teach the old rule. It doesn't cost a thing to say hello. It can make someone's day. I love when a little baby says "Hi" to me. It can sometimes bring joy to me to see the pure innocent joy they have. So let your daughter keep saying "Hi". She's sending a blessing.

Vivianne's Vista said...

I agree with Ms. Cooper, we should continue to teach our children to be polite. So many old rules are being thrown out the door, and I don't really think that our society is benefiting from it in any way. My children are very polite to others and it is always met with such surprise! Isn't that supposed to be the norm?

I also happen to love when others greet me with a smile for no reason, it really does put a spring in my step, a smile on my face and renewed faith in humanity!

Bibi @ Bibi's Culinary Journey said...

I am very anal about my boys and their manners. Please, thank you and Hello is a must in their vocabulary.

I do agree, so many adults are just so rude, but then you look at their children and they are the mirror image of their parents.

It's sad that so many people in today's society are lacking the basic manners.

Btw, great blog and i am your new follower.

Beth in NC said...

Thank you so much for the follow! I returned the favor. I look forward to knowing you better. Bless you!

Beth in NC said...

You and I are alike in this. I was taught manners. I look people in the eyes and I smile or nod -- say "Good morning" or whatever is appropriate. You're right. Many people don't respond. It is sad.

Now regarding your comment to my last post. Thank you. I suggest you move forward with your plan. It has been so rewarding. I love our daughter so much. God totally ordained our family.

Bless you!
Beth

Anonymous said...

It really is sad--people just seem to live in their own little worlds. Thanks for linking up at The MamaZone. I'm following you now.

Marice said...

cant help not to agree because we were taught the same thing. i guess those changes are inevitable. but still it depends on the upbringin :)

following u from FF! Feel free to visit me here:
Life Can't Wait and Up Now and What's Next

ThinkFeminist said...

Following you from a late Friday Follow. Your blog is very informative. I look forward to reading more in the archives.

You can also follow me at www.safehomehappymom.com

Linda B said...

Hi, I found your blog at The Mama Zone, I am following you and look forward to reading your posts!
Linda