Courtesy Should Be Displayed On The Part Of The Giver As Well As The Receiver

Why is it that I've got grouses each time I take the LRT to work? I think it's because in the rail we're totally exposed for a duration of time. For an excrutiating period in the train - yes, it moves slower than the rail transit of our southern neighbour - we're just standing there glancing around uncomfortably or for some toying with their mobiles. Some take the easy (or denial?) approach by keeping their eyes shut. So for that period, we're being observed and scrutinized. See that? That person just yawned. Or yucks! Did the fella just dig his nose? This lady certainly has too much time SMSing away on her mobile. You get the drift?

For me, I don't like taking the train primarily because I get nauseated by the sideway movement within the constrained space. Anyway in the context of this posting, I got up just after 1 stop to give my seat to a pregnant lady. I quickly threw the Dean Karnazes book I was reading back into my tote bag and said "Here you go", pointing to my seat. Without a nod or acknowledgment, she plunked herself down and behaved as if nothing happened. Let me state that I'm not hard up for a "thank you" but I think the courtesy campaign should also be directed to recipients of such good acts as well. It's always polite to say "Thank you" or at least a smile or a nod. Regardless of your physical or mental ability, it's not your God-given right to have everything handed to you on a silver platter. If indeed you're extended a good deed or favour, at least show some gratitude. I'm not sure if it's a hormonal thing or she was simply having a bad day but I've been taught to be polite and gracious regardless of your condition. It's an upbringing thing. Besides it doesn't cost one 100 calories to smile or mutter the words.

It's the same thing for holding the lift for someone but get no "Thank you" in return but I'd be accused of being an uptight person. I need to run this evening! Thanks for reading.