I recently read an article on words that will give you a better first (and lasting) impression. As I was reading through the article, it occurred to me that many of these words have gone by the wayside in our current "all for me" world, and that this list could easily be added to. So, I added to it, changed some and left some out . . . anyway, here's my list:
- Please and Thank You . . . I know most of us teach our young children to say please and thank you, but how many of us adults remember to use the words?
- You're Welcome . . . Instead of grunting, saying "Yep" or "No Problem", or giving the person some excuse for why they shouldn't have said "Thank You" to you in the first place (you know you do it, "Oh, It Was Nothing", etc.) . . . how about a simple "You're Welcome"?
- Sir and Ma'am . . . I love visiting the south and hearing the politeness coming from the majority of people you meet, all using the lovely word "Ma'am" when addressing me. A sure sign of respect that has been long lost up north in WI.
- I'm Sorry . . . Saying "I'm Sorry" isn't anything to be ashamed about, even to your own children. We should say we're sorry (and truly mean it) whenever we do something we shouldn't have.
- What do you need? -or- How can I help? -or- What can I do for you? . . . These are pretty self-explanatory, but they really show that you care about the person you're asking. Even simply picking up something someone dropped, shows respect and care for that person.
- I'll Do That . . . When's the last time you heard anyone offer to do something? Many times we hear our children say "I Didn't Do That", and we try to teach them to clean up the mess regardless, but do we utilize that same lesson in our own lives? Sometimes. How about just doing something, whether it's your job to do it or not?
- Take My Seat . . . Unfortunately, in today's world, it seems a rare event to see someone give up a seat for a person who needs it (whether the person is elderly, pregnant, disabled, juggling children or packages, or simply out-of-breath and needing a little rest). It's an easy act, and a welcome relief for the person (if they are willing to take it, don't be surprised if they don't).
