Editor: What happened to politeness and courtesy? You rarely hear, "please," "thank you," "you’re welcome" and "excuse me." People have become so egocentric that they do not consider the feelings of others. When things get complicated during interactions with other people, we tend to forget common courtesy.

The best example of this the when Vice President-elect Mike Pence attended the play "Hamilton" on Broadway. That was not the time or the place to present a statement of the cast’s political views. Who do these self-centered actors think they are? They owe the vice president-elect an apology.

When is the last time you got a "thank you" from an employee of a major store? I try to visit businesses that are owner operated, such as Coastal Discount Pharmacy in Midway. The owner, Glenn Fox, personally thanks his customers no matter how busy he is. That’s courtesy.

Things are so bad that Bill O’Reilly and James Patterson wrote a book, "Give Please a Chance." The book illustrates situations in which one small word can motivate others. Today’s children can sure use this book.

As I watch people interact today, I find it rare when a young person holds the door open for a frail elderly person. By the way, real men open doors for women and children. I can’t believe that when I hold a door open for someone, and they walk on past without a thank you or any acknowledgement.

Don’t forget the cell phone that goes off in the middle of a movie; or someone, who takes a cell phone call in a restaurant, and interrupts everyone around them who are trying to eat in peace. Take the phone outside or turn it off.

What really burns me is when vehicles without "disabled" plates or placards park in handicap parking spaces, forcing those, who struggle to get around every day, park a long way from the store.

Are we so busy that we can’t even look people in the eyes anymore? We tend to look past others as though they don’t exist.

Too many parents want to be "buddies" with their children, rather than being rule-enforcing adults, like a mom and dad should be. Parents, you need to raise your kids to acknowledge human beings as human beings.

People, act toward others as you wish to be treated; dignify others with your attention; show eloquence when you speak; show interest in others; learn patience; and be tolerant. You’ll add value to your life.

Len Calderone

Midway