Monday Manners: Southern Mothers’ Lessons for Her Daughter

Happy Monday!  I hope all of you had a great weekend!  I don’t know about your weather, but it was stifling hot here.  We tried to get to the park on Saturday morning, but after twenty minutes of playing, it was unbearable.  When I got home, I checked the weather, and it was already 96 degrees!

Loved these tips.  Let me know what you think, or if you think others needed to be added.

• Always say yes ma’am or yes, sir/ no ma’am or no, sir to one’s elder.
• Remember to say please and thank you for gifts, kindnesses, and services rendered.

• Remember to write a prompt thank you note when someone has entertained you and for every gift.
• RSVP means Respond if you please.  Do so promptly.

• A gentleman stands when a lady comes to the table and remains standing until the lady is seated.  Do not linger and leave a gentleman standing. Extend a brief but cordial greeting and progress on…or sit if invited so the gentleman might sit and continue his meal.  It is better not to intrude on a private gathering.
• A lady may wear a hat inside.

• Proceed through the door held by a gentleman with a smile and a thank you.
• Walk on the inside when walking down a sidewalk with a lady.
• A lady never walks and smokes.  Indeed, it is preferable that a lady not smoke as that habit will affect her children and the aesthetics of her home and vehicle.
• Never use rude or vulgar language.
• Do not talk with your mouth full.
• Wait until everyone is served before eating
• If your dinner knife becomes dirty, do not put it on the tablecloth.  Place it on the edge of your plate.
• Place the napkin in your lap immediately upon being seated.  If you must stand after putting your napkin in your lap, place it on the chair and not on the table. 
• Wait until everyone is served before beginning to eat.
• Young ladies and gentlemen give up their seat to adults, the infirm, the handicapped, expecting women, or the elderly in crowded buses or waiting rooms. Never be seated until your mother is seated.
• Turn off your cell phone when entering a theater, church or meeting.
• Be modest in demeanor and dress.
• Just like a man, a lady’s word should be her bond.