LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

“Manners are the happy way of doing things... tis the very beginning of civility, to make us, l mean, endurable to each other.”

Ralph Waldo Emerson

I know many of us are distressed to see evidence of the epidemic of rudeness that has infected our country. The reasons behind all this surliness vary, but it is clear that many of us have lost our way. I can’t change anyone else’s behavior, but l can try not to let myself succumb to this malady to which humans are vulnerable, particularly when they feel stressed. Here are some strategies l will employ.

— As Don Miguel Ruiz advises, l will be impeccable with my word. Before l speak or post on social media l will be certain that what l add to the discourse is true. If it is, l will then ask myself if it is kind or is it going to spread negativity which rudeness feeds on.

—l will attempt to avoid self-righteousness which is something we humans love because it makes us feel powerful. However, l also know that feeling disdain and meanness toward others does significant damage to my heart and soul.

—I will strive to follow the last and perhaps most important rule from The Rules of Civility and Decent Behavior in Company and Conversation which was taken very seriously by some of our country’s founders. “Labor to keep alive that little spark of celestial fire called conscience.”

Manners, common courtesy, and decent behavior are all contagious. We can be better.

Carol Howie