EXCUSE ME:  MANNERS

There are many large, heavy books that outline how you’re supposed to act in every
conceivable situation. It’s impossible to memorize all the rules. I’m here to simplify
everything.

The purpose of manners is to make the other person comfortable. Manners are not
intended to make YOU feel better. To that end, a well-mannered person never boasts,
brags, or calls attention to oneself. The well-mannered person always reflects the
spotlight elsewhere. Don’t worry that you’ll be forgotten if you’re not the center of
attention – you’ll be noticed more by being modest and generous.

The 2005 Nobel Prize for Medicine was awarded to researchers in Australia who proved
that ulcers are caused by a virus. Many people might wonder why that little discovery
was worth being honored by the prestigious Nobel Committee. The researchers were
rewarded not because they found a virus but because they had the courage to follow
their science in defiance of the understood truth that ulcers were caused by stress. The
medical establishment was ABSOLUTELY POSITIVE that ulcers were caused by stress.
No one was supportive of the idea that perhaps the educated medical community was
wrong. The researchers were alone in their convictions, and they eventually proved their
case. The moral here is: Everything we now know for certain will eventually be proved
wrong. Therefore, be humble about what you know to be true.

I tell you this story because the essence of good manners is to remember that what you
think is the truth is actually only your opinion. In a world with the internet and easy travel
to other countries, we all must be humble when we encounter cultures and habits that
seem odd. Don’t be quick to judge what is “correct” or ‘right” or “polite” or true.”

Of course, there are some standards that can never be breeched: equality between men
and women; giving aid to ones who cannot help themselves; honoring our Earth; being
kind to children; and respecting all people’s right to be free. But, as an American in the
21st Century, I know that not every culture has the same tenets. If I’m in a short-term
situation, like at a party or a wedding, I will not make a fuss if these standard are
breeched. Only make a stand for your non-negotiable standards if you’re in a long-term
situation, like a new job or you’re meeting your significant other’s family.  

More Beauty Tip Sections:

YOU LOOK
FABULOUS:  
SKIN

BE A LOSER:
WEIGHT
LOSS

EXCUSE ME:
MANNERS

STANDING TALL:
POSTURE

......GONE
TOMORROW:
HAIR REMOVAL

I WANT TO HOLD
YOUR HAND:
HANDS AND NAILS

HAIR TODAY......
HAIR CARE TIPS

I'M SO TIRED:
SLEEP

OH, MY ACHING
FEET:
FEET AND LEGS

I'M ALL WET:
BATH AND
SHOWER

GEE, YOU
SMELL NICE:
PERFUME

SAY CHEESE:  
LIPS AND
TEETH