I’m fine, thanks. And you?

Why do people say “how are you?” and keep walking pass before giving you a chance to answer. I might say “I’m fine,thanks. And you?” Or “Terrible. I have the flu.” Or “None of your effin’ business.”

If you don’t really care how I am, why ask? I’d rather you just not say anything than ask an empty question that proves that you don’t care enough to hear a response. Doesn’t anyone have any manners anymore?

Good manners have become an increasingly archaic school of thought. They just aren’t what they used to be. In fact, people can be downright rude for no reason at all. What good are good manners anyway? What do they have to do with me or you? Is there a benefit?

Here are some reasons that I stole off someone’s website:

• Good manners make people feel comfortable. People who feel relaxed will most likely agree to your requests.
  
• Good manners are impressive. Those who are impressed by you will treat you with more respect.
  
• Good manners make other people feel good. You can help make the world a better, more harmonious place to live.
  

OK, so it may seem a little too much of a good thing to suddenly become Miss Manners, but I don’t think I’m the only who becomes a little (or a lot) annoyed with some behaviors.

• Look people in the eye when you talk to them. (Except at Medusa, of course) Are you with me or somewhere else?? Am I that boring; or is something going on in your life that you would like to share with me because you cannot concentrate of what I’m saying; or is there some naked guy standing over there because I wanna see him too.


• Clean up after yourself. No one wants to pick up your nasty tissues or coffee cups. In case you didn’t think about it, I’m a little grossed out with the thought of getting some of your bodily fluids on my hand. Ewww!


• Don’t interrupt. This one really chaps my hide. Was the funny little dog really more important than hearing about my big promotion?? I’m not saying that I’m 100% innocent of this offense, but it still bothers me. (BTW, for those of you who work with me, I didn't get a promotion. It's just an example. Geez! But you didn't know because you interrupted me because of your little dog.)
  


• Respect your elders. I like this one, because I’m an elder to a lot of people; and I want the royal treatment. Old people like this, and most of them probably deserve it.


• Treat people as you would like to be treated. This is a no-brainer. Isn’t it? Is it? Hello?


• Use good table manners, like chew with your mouth closed; don’t take up the whole side of the table with your elbows spread out; use your fork; use the serving spoons; use your napkin … I think you get the picture.


• Acknowledge people when they speak to you. Uh-hm. I think I mentioned something similar to this already.

OK, so some of those tips may seem to be a little too persnickety, but they can’t hurt … can they? I plan on working on myself to improve my manners.

In the meantime, if you pass me in the hall, on the street, at the gym, and you ask me “How you doin’?”, could you please wait for a response. I just might say “Well, I’m having a tough time giving away an all-expense paid vacation for two to Jamaica. Can you help me out, Pal?”