1. From your auto mechanic:
"That part is much less expensive than I thought."
"I've never seen anyone maintain his car as well as you do."
"You could get that done more cheaply at the garage down the street."
"It was just a loose wire -- no charge."

2. From a store clerk:
"The computerized cash register is down. I'll just add up your purchases with a pencil and paper."
"We're sorry we sold you defective merchandise. We'll pick it up at your home and bring you a new one, or give you a complete refund...whichever you prefer."

3. From a contractor:
"Whoever worked on this before sure knew what he was doing."
"I think I came in a little high on that estimate."

4. From a dentist:
"I think you're flossing too much."
"I won't ask any questions until I take the drill out of your mouth."

5. From a restaurant server:
"I think it's presumptuous for a waiter to volunteer his name, but since you ask, it's Tom."
"I was slow and inattentive. I cannot accept a tip."

Yep. But the one about the waiter reminds me of something that has really bothered me in recent years.

I like that waiters introduce themselves. It makes it much easier to get their attention when you need it. Instead of calling out a general "Excuse me!" or "Hey, you!" or (worst of all) "Garcon!", it allows you to beckon your server specifically. I think it's handy.

What I don't like is that it is becoming increasing rare at doctor's and dentist's offices for the nurse or other attendants to introduce themselves before asking all of those highly personal questions. Excuse me, but if I'm going to be discussing my __________ (fill in the blank) with a person, I'd at least like to know his or her name.

I've learned to deal with this very simply. If they immediately start in with the questions, I pointedly pause before responding... and then I smile and clearly say "Good morning, my name is Steve". 100% of the time they smile and reply in kind. And things are much more relaxed and enjoyable after that.

Why is it so easy to forget to take a few seconds to be personable, especially when it is so effective at making the rest of the time more pleasant?

Steve,
Basic manners are scarce in life today. Simple respect such as introducing people or introducing yourself to someone takes only a moment. But it has to be a part of your basic manners.

Did ya'll fail to notice that was posted in a humor thread?

Humor? HUMOR??? We don't need no stinkin' humor!

LOL

Come on steve, didn't the other thread tell you it was okay to say "vagina"?

ha! Thank you, Bridgier. You brought funny back. Now I'm LOL! ROTF, actually.

[This message has been edited by Steve Craddock (5/6/2012)]