Let's talk manners. What are they and where did they go? Like most words, "manners" has multiple meanings. I'm interested in the meaning that is defined as polite or well-bred social behavior. The issue I have with it is, it seems they are going extinct. The "please" will always exist, but the "thank you" and art of common courtesy are the ones I have noticed withering away. For example, little to no one says thank you when I hold the door open for them. Another is not thanking a car for stopping and allowing you to cross the middle of the road. One other is not making sure that someone is behind you when you are walking through the door.

I believe that almost everyone is nice. I know that there are always exceptions, but for the most part, everyone I come into contact with is unbelievably kind and caring. That's why it boggles my mind that they don't think about the little things that make the biggest difference. It is like they are missing the opportunity to put a smile on a stranger's face or to be a hospitable citizen of the community.

Manners are nationwide, so it is not just a southern hospitality thing. I believe everyone should always make themselves aware of their surroundings, not only for safety but also for the community to work with grace. Today's society has a narcissistic, selfish reputation. I don't think that it is intentional. I believe it is unconscious selfishness. I say this because society today also has a need for speed. Everyone wants to be somewhere, wants to have something, and wants to be the best.

They don't want to wait on any of it either. This pushes them to put their goals over the people around them and eliminates patience. Manners take time, they don't take long, but for someone waiting five seconds for the person behind you to get to the door is too long. Or there is no time to say two one-syllable words.

The world is not a mean place. If people take time to make themselves aware of the little things, it will be happier than it was before. People are happy and kind and want others to be happy. They just need to remember to be aware and take advantage of the opportunity that is in front of them.