Read an interesting blog post today on the vanishing practice of civility where the blogger lives. And, I fear, it's true here as well. I say that because those occasions when someone is civil to me (opening a door, letting me 'in' while driving, smiling) are so few and far between as to be memorable.

When I began walking with a cane due to my rheumatoid arthritis, I noticed a slight 'bump' in the level of civil behavior toward me, but only slight. There are certain stores here where ALL the employees are always pleasant and polite and I truly enjoy that, even if it is only company policy.

I hope that our 15 year old son is as civil toward others when he is not with us, as when he is with us. He opens doors, takes packages for those struggling with them and is generally helpful and always pleasant when making purchases or just encountering people in public. He is the first to begin chatting while waiting in line and it's sad how many adults are surprised by his friendly, easygoing manner. I pray he never changes. Because, hopefully, his behavior will rub off on the people he meets on his travels.