In recent months, I’ve come across reports of adults enrolling in “preschool” classes, aiming to reconnect with their youthful selves through activities like coloring, finger painting, and show-and-tell—some even spending up to $1,000 for the experience. As amusing as this may sound, I have a more practical suggestion: why not borrow my child for a while? I could use a night out with my partner, and it might just provide a real-life lesson on etiquette.
The root of my concern lies in the unfortunate behavior exhibited by numerous adults, which can often be more immature than that of a toddler. Many of these individuals display such poor manners that a brief revisit to preschool might do them a world of good. Instead of indulging in artistic pursuits, here are some essential lessons they desperately need:
- Cover Your Mouth When Coughing
Last week alone, I witnessed three individuals cough without any regard for those around them—in confined spaces, no less! As we approach cold and flu season, this behavior is particularly alarming. One instance occurred in an elevator, where a woman turned directly towards my newborn and coughed. This level of ignorance is astonishing. - Clean Up After Yourself
While I may struggle with tidiness at home, I maintain a clean presence in public. It’s simply rude to leave a mess for someone else to deal with. I once observed a woman in her 50s carelessly sweeping muffin crumbs onto the floor of a café, oblivious to the fact that others might not appreciate her lack of consideration. - Line Up Single File
When navigating public spaces, it’s not a parade. If you’re with your family, that’s great, but don’t block the sidewalk by spreading out horizontally. I often find myself late to my own engagements, so being obstructed by a leisurely family stroll is incredibly frustrating. - Keep Your Hands to Yourself
A firm reminder: do not touch my baby. Yes, this deserves emphasis. The urge to interact with a newborn is understandable, but without knowing the health risks involved, it’s unacceptable. My baby’s immune system is still developing, so please, respect our space. - Say Please and Thank You
These phrases are not optional; they are essential. If you want something, showing gratitude is crucial. Additionally, learning to apologize sincerely when you’ve made a mistake is a valuable skill. It fosters empathy, a quality that seems to be diminishing in our society. - Consider the Feelings of Others
Empathy is a skill that many adults have seemingly forgotten. Ask yourself how you would feel if someone disregarded your struggles. Whether it’s holding a door for a parent with a stroller or simply acknowledging someone’s presence, understanding others’ perspectives can go a long way. - No Pushing
After witnessing a chaotic Halloween event where parents were shoving children aside to snatch candy, it’s clear that poor manners are often learned at home. If we want our kids to behave decently, we need to model that behavior ourselves. - Focus on Your Own Actions
Distractions can lead to mishaps, whether for children or adults. Stop judging others and concentrate on your own path—this will not only improve your own experience but also contribute to a more civil environment.
In conclusion, these eight simple rules can greatly enhance our interactions and foster a more considerate society. Feel free to print this list and share it with those who could benefit. If they oppose it? Tough luck. Sometimes, it’s necessary to take the lead and be the responsible adult.
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Summary
Adult behavior often mirrors that of unruly children, necessitating a return to basic manners and social niceties. By adhering to eight fundamental guidelines—such as covering one’s mouth when coughing and practicing empathy—we can improve societal interactions significantly.
Keyphrase: Adult manners
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