January 15, 2013

Dear Sir,

An interesting editorial in today's newspaper. I often find myself automatically reaching for a pen and paper whenever I see anything written about manners, etiquette or protocol. Then I hesitate because of the perception that by commenting, I am pointing out a person's lack of manners.

But this is different. You have requested feedback on your observations.

Your comment 'pine for a return to a bygone era' actually speaks volumes. The reason it even crossed your mind in relation to manners is because the civility of years gone by is like comfort food. It's what people crave, it warms the heart, it brings a smile to your face and it makes things more pleasant to accept. And like most comfort food, manners are basic. Contrary to what we see displayed on a daily basis now days, people usually know exactly what manners are so there's really no acceptable reason not to use them. I don't just hope we can turn things around, I believe we can. It will be done by:

1. Making people aware of how much more they can accomplish by using manners

2. Ensure our youth are on a manners path from an early age and making sure they stay there

3. Set an example of good manners ourselves.

Bermuda will always be 'another world.' The thing we have to remember is that it's in Bermudian hands collectively, how that world will be viewed. If we think about how we would like to be treated by others, we already have a guide for what to do. I don't think people realise how easy it is to incorporate manners into our daily living. I also don't think they recognise the power of simple manners. Start with a smile to people you pass on the street, it's surprising how effective that simple acknowledgment of another person can be.

TRUDY SNAITH

Director, The Executive School of Protocol