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So why do I need to be polite anyway?

Etiquette is the code of conduct that guides us in social settings.  Etiquette is a list of rules of behavior to make the masses comfortable when interacting with us.  Etiquette is a social grace that represents who we are and who we are to become.  Etiquette is being polite and respectful around others.  Etiquette is many things, most of which, etiquette is mostly forgotten.

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Whether or not you have an empty nest at home, you impart etiquette on those with whom you interact.  The actions of others are influenced by our actions.  Beverly Mucha, Winona Examiner, similarly writes about this in her article "Teaching children manners; always start with please."  If we behave appropriately, most people follow suit and want to appear in the same esteem to which they hold us.  Most of you may be familiar with the phrase "lead by example" or the psychological term "self-fulfilling prophecy."

Creating conditions for things to happen increase the likelihood they will occur.  In the movie "Little Darlings," Kristy McNichol and Tatum O'Neal made a bet to see who would lose her virginity first at summer camp. Although Tatum did not, and Kristy did, Kristy exercised etiquette to not "kiss and tell." She was certainly no Charlie Sheen in that movie.  She was a little darling.

In 1922, Emily Post published "Etiquette in Society, in Business, in Politics, and at Home," wherein she discussed etiquette as it relates to many topics including dating.  When on dates, it is advisable to remember little things such as:  not primping at the dinner table, holding doors open, not discussing war, and racism.  Some of these tips are common sense, but it seems as if sense really is not that common - at least not in Orlando.