Why I try to be nice to people.

[Obamanaut]

During my high school years I had a good friend. We were in several classes together even though I was one grade year ahead of him. We double-dated to my senior prom, using his dad’s new Edsel. For my graduation he gave me a nice combination watch/id bracelet with my brand new military service number engraved on the back. I had already signed my agreement for my military service which would last 28 years, because I had not prepared myself for college.

As it turned out, the watch never did work right even though I had it repaired several times. The whole unit was made of some sort of stainless steel. Both of my daughters used it as a teething ring, as did two of my grandchildren. We still have it, and it still doesn’t work.

Several years ago, I tried to find my friend to tell him how much the watch/bracelet had meant to my family over the years. I discovered he had died some time ago.

Nearly two years ago my wife had an accident on her motor scooter, and whilst I was discussing with the medical folks in the ICU such things as DNR, intubation, possible neurosurgery to relieve pressure from the bleeding, etc., it occurred to me that I could not recall if I had told her that day that I loved her.

I can’t go back and tell my friend, but I don’t make that same mistake any more with Ms ret88, or with people whom I think need to hear something pleasant. Clerks in stores look at me with surprise when I tell them how much I enjoyed going through their line - and then they smile.

[DarkTirade]

1. One of many reasons.

:)

[Swede]

2. I always say please and thank you to tellers and waiters.

Most people don't,and I don't know why?

[DarkTirade]

3. I wonder about people sometimes.

I mean, if a common politeness like that makes someone's day... that means that they've probably gone the entire day WITHOUT someone expressing said common politeness to them.

[Gormy Cuss]

4. It costs so very little to be nice to those around us

and it can pay off enormously.

[Rhiannon12866]

5. What a terrific post! Thank you!

I try to be nice to people, as well. I'm one of those who chats in lines and speaks to the check out people. It doesn't hurt anything just to be nice to people, and you never know how much it might mean. :pals:

[Mugu]

6. Before the smoking ban

I went out every evening for dinner and coffee. I always made sure that I spoke to everybody working from the owner to the busboy when arriving and leaving. I was a busboy once and to this day I remember the people that made an effort to speak. If I'm remembered even half as fondly as I remember those folks I can die happy.

Regards, Mugu

[Common Sense Party]

7. Thank you for an uplifting, and important, post!

(It's helping to get rid of the stench from the "I'd love to beat up Hannity" thread.)

Being nice costs nothing, and often pays big dividends.