This is a little different from most of my articles, but I was so bothered by the recent shootings of the innocent police officers in New York, I couldn’t stop thinking about how children are being raised, and the difference a few manners may make.
A west coast acquaintance was not happy I instructed my then three year old to say, “Yes ma’am” to her. She also didn’t think it was an act of kindness when my husband held the door for the two of us. She alluded that our Southern manners were an oppressive thing of the past.
But are manners important only for reasons of tradition, or is there a larger purpose in our properness?
When children learn there is a pecking order in society to which they must adhere, I think they’re more likely to learn the qualities of respect and honor. As much as some people would like to think, outside of God’s eyes, we aren’t all created equal, and when it comes to real-life, like it or not, there is usually going to be someone who is in charge of you. And whether or not you like your boss, commanding officer or principal, you need to show them due respect.
My son can be steaming mad at me for  . . . click HERE to read more.
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“Southern with a Gulf Coast Accent” can be found in these fine newspapers: The Courier, The Foley Onlooker, The Islander, The Baldwin Times, The Independent, and The Sumter Item in South Carolina.Â
If you are local, I’d like to invite you to join me Friday, February 6th at Greer’s Supermarket in Downtown Fairhope for the live broadcast of WABF radio, from 4-6pm, where I’ll be the featured writer of the month! There will be samples of all Greer’s specialties throughout the store with great fun just before the First Friday Art Walk. You’ll be able to sign up for a subscription to our fabulous Gulf Coast Newspapers and dance your way around the potatoes and cucumbers! Read more about it in an upcoming post.