Courtesy

 

What really is courtesy? I think in Nigeria we have termed it as referring to someone as “Ma” or “Sir” because of the age of the individual.

Courtesy is a polite and respectful attitude or behavior towards someone. I strongly oppose the idea that only elderly people should be respected. Please do not misunderstand me, I agree that the older people should be respected based on their higher number of years here on earth and their life experiences that span across several years. But I also believe everyone some way, or another should be respected as a human being. 

Whether a toddler, a teenager, a young adult or an elderly person, everyone deserves to be treated in a polite and considerate manner. I have had situations whereby because of the age difference an individual did not apologize to me or say words as simple as "Thank you" or "Please". 

I strongly believe it costs us nothing to be courteous, no matter the individual. Whether young or old, everyone deserves to be treated with respect and dignity.