Common Courtesy Day brings awareness to how important common courtesy is in our lives. The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines courtesy as; A: behavior marked by polished manners or respect for others: courteous behavior and/or B: a courteous and respectful act or expression. Common courtesy can be as simple as saying "Please" and "Thank you" when asking for or receiving a service. gift, or assistance.
The biggest problem with common courtesy today is that it isn't very common at all. As humans become busier, they tend to forget acknowledging those with whom they interact. Humans then become ill-mannered. It's really kind of a shame since so little effort is required to smile and be pleasant. It is said that people don't smile because they are unhappy. But have you ever noticed how much harder is it to be sad when you're smiling? Acting happy makes you feel happier. And your improved mood improves the mood of those you come in contact with. Just as common courtesy is a gift that keeps on giving, so is your sour mood and bad behavior. I ask you, which would rather give...and receive?
Holding open the door for others is a gesture that we rarely see happen anymore. Everyone is in such a rush, including me, that we hurry in and often wind up closing the door in front of those who are behind us. And what about "those good ol' days" when we used to let someone with only one or two items go in front of in at the check-out queue?
I could drone on here about how the lack of common courtesy is hurting all of us. But I think we all know that this is true. We can hardly go out in public without seething over some unkind act that was done to us. But how often do we ask ourselves if we ourselves were the perpetrator of any unkindnesses?
There are a million small gestures we can do each day to help make the world a little kinder and nicer. I'm sure you can think of a bunch. Maybe it starts with thanking the barista who makes your morning coffee. Or letting a merging vehicle get in front of you on your commute today. I have great faith that you'll think of many ways to show courtesy, not just today...but each and every day. I ask you to please let's all work to make common courtesy common again. Currently, it's far too uncommon. Courtesy begins with you. So why not give it a whirl? You've nothing to lose and lots to gain.
As you may know, I always try to have something fun for you each Friday. And tomorrow's no exception. Please stop back by for a look at goofing off and how it's actually good for you! Until then, dear reader, enjoy your day. Please be kind. (I know you are.)
PEACE
http://www.presspublications.com/opinionscolumns/146-dare-to-live-without-limits/1927-a-lack-of-common-courtesy-harms-everyone