Say the word 'Etiquette' and then pay attention to the pictures that appear in your mind. Do you see a beautiful table set with sparkling crystal? Maybe you see beautifully dressed couples on a dance floor. Perhaps the words 'class' or 'sophistication' pop into your mind. I know you're not seeing someone eating with their fingers, or a neighbor trashing someone's reputation.



Now put yourself in the pictures you formed in your mind. Do you fit there? Would you like to fit there?

The word 'Etiquette' is so far reaching that it would be impossible to discuss everything it applies to. There is nothing in life it doesn't apply to and it encompasses things like table manners, respect for others, kindness and gentility.

Many of you who cannot see yourselves in the pictures we have formed either don't know how to practice etiquette or are too lazy to try. Some think they are too busy and certainly we all are very busy, but etiquette is a way of life, an attitude that does not take any more time than the lack of etiquette takes. If you are raising children, you owe it to them to teach them proper etiquette, just like you send them to school to learn other subjects. It may be one of the most important things they learn.

Now try to see yourself as an employer who is interviewing an applicant for a job. Lets say the applicant is late for the interview (lack of respect) or he/she does not look neat and clean (again, lack of respect). I would like to point out that the 'lack of respect' is not only for the potential employer, but for themselves.

Most of us would like to be in those pictures and it certainly is not impossible for anyone who has the desire. Etiquette is not difficult to learn. You do not have to go to a finishing school or take special courses. As I said, it is an attitude that applies to all of your life. Pay attention to the things you see that offend you, like watching the inside of someone's mouth as they masticate their food. What is your impression when you listen to someone speaking and they only know one adjective and they use it as every third word (you know the word I mean )? Certainly, the word 'class' does not come to mind. Do your children speak like that?

Everyone is capable of good etiquette by just doing onto others etc. If you need visual examples you could watch the movies My Fair Lady or Pretty Woman. These will give you excellent instruction on what etiquette is and what NOT to do.

If you try to incorporate etiquette into your life I think you will be amazed at the difference you'll see in the attitude of others toward you.