My generation has had to suffer a lifetime of hearing "chivalry is dead" and "young people have no respect anymore" from more, er, seasoned people (I won't use the "old" word). And while these accusations may be appropriate for some people my age, the seasoned generations seem to forget that they, too, are guilty of committing some horrible social crimes. This is a list of common courtesies people seem to have forgotten; and yes, it is for all people.
1. Put your shopping carts back.
The other day, I traveled to the dark land, also known as Walmart. After searching for a parking spot for what seemed like an eternity, a light shone down from heaven onto the most magnificent spot I had ever seen. As I turned into my glorious parking spot, Satan said, "Not today!" No, it would've been too easy to have found a good place to park with no catch. There, sitting where my car should've been, was a hideous shopping cart. Who does that?! Evil people, that's who. Return your carts to their rightful homes. This isn't a suggestion.
2. Use table manners.
You know what I love? I love when I'm enjoying a meal, minding my own business, when all of a sudden, I can hear the mating call of a bad table mannered person. My ears perk up. My eye twitches. The smacking of the food echoes through the whole restaurant, and I feel like the person is right in my ear, chewing away. I want to duct tape their mouths shut. Remember, if you don't want to watch the world burn, chew with your mouth closed.
3. Chivalry
Thankfully, most of the gentlemen I know are courteous enough to open doors for ladies. Not that we need help opening a door. It's just a nice gesture and sometimes the world needs a reminder to do it.
4. Chivalry, Part II
Gentlemen, try your hardest not to attack ladies. It gets rather bothersome having to carry pepper spray and check under our cars.
5. Don't litter.
The good Lord made trash cans for a reason. Use them.
6. Don't litter, Part II
Gum under tables. Enough said.
7. BE NICE TO WAITERS, WAITRESSES, CASHIERS, BASICALLY BE NICE TO ANY STORE EMPLOYEES!
So, there is your annual reminder of things you ought to do to be a decent human being. Hopefully none of these are new concepts to you. Have a good day and make someone smile!
