Common Courtesy

There is nothing new to be said on this subject, but something very old, something essential to peace, to all satisfactory relationships of life — and that is respect, appreciation and consideration for people — all summed up in what is called “common courtesy,” which, regrettably, isn’t so common as might be supposed: courtesy in the home, courtesy with loved ones, courtesy with those closest to us, and courtesy with those who are farthest from us; courtesy in private, courtesy in public. “All doors are open to courtesy,” said Thomas Fuller. And, as Tennyson said: “The greater the man the greater the courtesy.” “Self-respect,” said E.S. Martin, “is at the bottom of all good manners… and respect for other people’s rights and comfort and feelings.” “There is no outward sign of true courtesy,” said “Goethe, “that does not rest on a deep moral foundation.” “Small kindnesses, small courtesies, small considerations… give a greater charm to the character than the display of great talents and accomplishments.” “Nothing,” said Cicero, nothing “is more becoming in a great man than courtesy…” With more people in more places doing more things than ever before, the need for more patience, more courtesy, more consideration is greater than ever before — recognizing every person in his place. Courtesy to children, courtesy to parents, courtesy to old people, courtesy to the young, to the teacher, courtesy to every questioner, to everyone in need of help is an absolute essential to the living of a good and happy life. Without courtesy and respect for people, life would deteriorate to an ugly snarl and there would be a blighting of human happiness. All of us live by the help and service of others. All of us need to examine ourselves and see that we are courteous and considerate, not superficially so, but with courtesy, with respect that comes from deep within the human heart.

“Of Courtesy, it is much less

Than Courage of Heart or Holiness,

Yet in my Walks it seems to me

That the Grace of God is in Courtesy.”