What’s the magic word?

Are manners a thing of the past? Are they outdated in our modern day society of quick fixes and emojis and getting straight to the point and not pussy footing around (even if you’re a cat). I think not. A please shows respect, a thank you can make someone’s day, manners make the world go around. As a former hospitality worker, I know how much of a difference it can make to be acknowledged and appreciated, however briefly, in a sea of grumpy faces and dirty cups.

Should we teach manners to kids and unsuspecting members of the general public? And if so, how should this be done? I think, ‘Yes Sir, thank you Sir. Thank you very much for asking kind Sir’, as manners are not something that you innately know but rather something that you learn by role modelling and consistency. A simple prompt like ‘what’s the magic word?’ or ‘what do you say?’ can have a life-long impact. I still hear my Dad’s voice in my head prompting me if I or anyone else omits a please or a thank you or says can instead of may. If nothing else, I’m well mannered ‘young’ lady.

Is common courtesy common anymore? I think not. Should it be? I think so. Even if I’m asking a child to do something, I’ll say, ‘please could you stop hitting little Johnny? Thank you very much’. Talk to someone the way you want to be talked to because manners are a lost art that could well be lost forever if we adults don’t start finding and minding our ‘p’s and q’s’.

Try bringing back good old fashioned manners. Role modelling like a super model! Remember to say please and thank you and enquire after their health and use ‘may’ instead of ‘can’ when applicable. And in these rude times, manners may help you stand out from the crowd. ‘Who was that polite young lady?! Let’s give her the promotion!’ Do you mind your p’s and q’s? Do you think that we should bring manners back?

I’m bringing manners back. You other fuc$$ers don’t know how to act.

 Love and light and please and thank you very much xxx Yvette