I was brought up respecting elders, speaking only when spoken to and obeying correct etiquette when required (which was always). I felt  the sting of a wooden spoon on the back of my legs when I stepped a toe out of line and got sent to detention regularly at school. I don’t think I turned out too badly!

So when did the words ‘please’ and ‘thank-you’ and a smile become optional extras in daily life? I’m sure I could come up with some very poignant excuses why they’ve gone by the wayside, but really, I think it comes down to our very fast-paced lifestyle: too many distractions and worries. It’s easier just to revolve in our own little world, blissfully unaware.

I have many pet peeves but my husband has one. Pusher-inners.  Those who  push in line. Whether it’s waiting to board a plane, or ordering some lunch at a shop, this is the ultimate discourteous act in his book. He makes a point of glaring at the back of the person’s head or if he’s feeling really brave, he might mutter at them under his breath.  Doesn’t make one iota of a difference but it makes him feel better. He must’ve missed the memo that this is now a wholly acceptable action.  But when did not waiting your turn in line transcend the Common Courtesy boundary? What a pity.

The one thing that really (x10!) annoys me is how drivers don’t acknowledge other drivers on the roads very much any more.  A wave, a nod of the head or a finger flick in thanks isn’t in the etiquette book of many drivers in Australia these days.

When did courtesy on the roads fade into insignificance?

Even more worrying is the anger some drivers show if you dare to change lanes in front of them. And don’t get me started on indicators, (or lack thereof) or tailgating. And all this anger and impatience seems to be an Australian trait. Recently travelling in Vietnam the one thing that hit me was the absolute chaos on the roads. But it worked!

The courtesy and synergy all drivers showed was amazing and something that we could learn from.

In Italy, it’s similar, albeit most of the cars have minor scratches and dents. Australians still seem to think that being on the road is a right rather than a privilege.

My daughter and I have very different courtesy expectations. When she was much younger I explained to her that she should respect her elders; she retorted: ‘Why? Respect is earnt’.  I was horrified! I think she has mellowed a little now that today’s kids treat her with the same disdain and eye rolling mannerisms. What goes around comes around…

For the record, I love it when someone holds open the door for me or offers me their seat on the train. My daughter thinks these actions are archaic and throws women’s hard fought equality and rights to the curb. Bit dramatic, but each to their own.

“Chelsea and her team at OTR Aberfoyle Park always bring a smile to my lips. “

It saddens me that people seem quite rude these days,  even though that probably isn’t their intent. That being said, a smile, a thank you or a nod of the head can be contagious!

I observe the niceties most of the time.

There aren’t very many occasions. I won’t use courtesy, although I admit sometimes only in the hope it will rub off on the other person! (And yes,I admit sometimes I don’t let that driver in who indicates at the last second to push in front of me!).

We need to bring back etiquette, the common courtesies, respect for each other, and the driver acknowledgement finger flick for the betterment of society. 

If I run for parliament, that will be my manifesto. Vote 1 for Bel, as a matter of courtesy.

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