When someone does you a courtesy, the proper response is, "Thank you."
On last week's Swingtown (arguably the best show this summer, probably this year), Tom the Swingin' Neighbor helps Susan load supplies into a car. Mind you, Tom is not going on this trip; he's just lending a helping hand. The scene plays out thusly:
TOM:
I'll load these into the car. (Picks up bags)
SUSAN:
(weak smile)
Really, Susan, you're that deserving of help that you can't thank the guy that helped you?
Yes, I realize I'm getting spun up about fictional characters. But this is how much I love good manners -- that when an effing fake character overlooks them, I get upset.
I've seen episodes of ER in which the doctor will tell a patient something like, "I removed the bullet and stitched up your chest; you'll be able to make it to the prom by 7 pm," to only receive a quiet nod in response.
You know, I've spent weeks in the hospital with ill loved ones, and here's how the conversation usually goes:
DOCTOR
We've reviewed the lab results--
ME
Thank you, doctor!
DOCTOR
--and everything seems to be normal--
ME
Thank you!
DOCTOR
--so we just want to keep her here for another two hours--
ME
Thank you!!!!
DOCTOR
--for observation.
ME
Thank you, Doctor. We appreciate your help so much.
And while my tirade against my favorite show may seem silly, I'm sad to report that crap extends to every day.
Raise your hand if you've ever been asked for the time, and after checking your watch and telling the stranger before you the current time, s/he walks off with nary a kind word.
Yeah, I thought so.
When someone lets you into traffic, say "thank you." (polite wave of the hand)
When someone does anything kind for you -- no matter where you are -- say "thank you."
I know of a certain office worker who has demanded help on his late night projects. (demanded. not "asked for.") He never once thanked those who helped him--and, surprise surprise--no one ever stays late to help him anymore.
Back to Swingtown: Later in the same episode, Susan does another pet peeve of mine: she hangs up the phone without saying "goodbye."
Believe it or not, I do have hobbies. blogging about and blasting rude-asses is one of them.
Thank you for reading. Good-bye.
Swingtown PS: Anyone besides me think Laurie needs to be smacked into next week? Tell me in the comments.
