Simple Courtesies Matter

Without ethics, a person is soulless and without good etiquette a person is lifeless.

Some people, right from their childhoods, are soft-spoken and exhibit good manners as if courtesies are embedded in their genes. Some are so rash and rude in their ways that they take pride in their fiery character.

I remember my first employer who was a man of principles and good manners. Although, he was far elder to me, but he never commanded like a chieftain. On the contrary, very often, during conversations, he used words such as ‘please’ and ‘thank you’. Sometimes, he gave a pleasant chuckle and that was enough to please his workers. In times of stress, he showed no marks of irritation. And even, at someone’s bothering, he expressed no anger. If he was wrong with anyone, he readily expressed his apologies and wasn’t hesitant for a timely reconciliation. And, to rectify someone, he was mannerly in approach.

After all, simple courtesies matter. Sometimes, more than saying, a little smile counts. Vividly, as I recall my school days, we had our vice principal, from the pastoral group, who always had a smiling face. His cheerful looks made the children less fearful, and we, for the sake of seeing his beaming face, used to pass by and greet him respectfully.

Obviously, it’s the right culture and etiquettes that matters. When children receive these two rudiments in their childhoods, they tend to grow mannerly adults. As there’s saying that ‘mother’s lap is child’s first academy’. 

Children, firstly, pick up words and ways from their parents before learning anywhere. So, parents play pivotal roles in helping kids learn little courtesies and phrases of politeness.

When children behave in discourteous manner, then there are ways to discipline them. But what to do when a grown up person acts in an impolite way? 

Some people are so miserly in their manners that they respond not to others’ gestures and greetings.

At workplaces, perhaps the main reason for conflicts and favoritism are either due to jealousy or rude manners. Some people are too good in their talks, but because of their envious feelings, they disembark from their character and become unruly. And some are plainly arrogant who ooze out their senses and mutter anything to abuse their opponents. What happens when people lack courtesies and refined culture? Well, we find erroneous employees who carry bristly behaviors and poor performance.

It doesn’t matter even if your neighbors are of different belief, culture or language. But, when you treat your neighbors with courtesies and kindness, then there prevails harmony and helpfulness.

Well, a person cannot be grateful to the Almighty Lord without being thankful to human beings. Shouldn’t we respect others as they deserve? It’s simple logic. Let’s think of practicing humanity before we aspire spirituality. And no person can make a propaganda of humanity without harboring excellent character.

In truth, an able leader is a person who inspires others with his excellent character and truthfulness. Perhaps, there are countless leadership traits that can be listed, but of all, verily, an influential leader, with chiseled character, is a worthwhile example and such a person ranks on the top.