Bad Manners – A Sign of the Times?

Sometimes you just have to wonder about people.  What’s the purpose of being rude or bad manners?  Really?

What has me wondering such deep ponderances you ask? Well, it was yesterday’s lunch. 

I was in the drive-thru at a local fast food place and was approached by this person.  While he may not have been dressed in a three piece suit, he wasn’t dressed all that poorly either.  He explained a long story to me about needing to get to the hospital (which by the way was only two blocks away) to tend to his wife who had been taken by ambulance because of dehydration.

He was asking for money to cover the bus ride.  Actually, he was very specific he wanted at least $5.00.

When I handed him a handful of  change, he looked at me and said “That’s it?”  “Well, if that’s all…” and then he walked away.

My response?  Gee, he didn’t even say “Thank you” and then I was mad.  How rude!  How dare he take advantage of the kindness of others and respond so rudely!

I was not happy.  Actually, today, 24hr later – I am shocked at such behavior.   I was brought up taught that manners are imperative – not optional. 

I’m saddened by his behavior.  Whether the story was true or not, it doesn’t matter.  In today’s economy, all of us have needs and I think we, as a human race, should help out if the opportunity presents itself.  But really, how hard would it have been to mutter a meager ”Thank You” – whether he meant them or not?