Do rude people know they are being rude? I don’t think so. Can they be so oblivious as to how they treat people? I must say a couple of days before Christmas I did have to run out and pick up a few things that I had forgotten. As I was trying to squeeze past another shopper in the aisle, I excused myself and smiled. The other shopper who was also trying to get past the oblivious one, smiled at me and said “Merry Christmas!” She meant it, she wasn’t trying to be sarcastic, of course I smiled back and said, “Thank you, Merry Christmas to you also!” I understood she had been raised with social skills, and I felt a tinge of merriness as I continued to remember my list of things not to forget.
I host Christmas at our house. My mom taught me how to be a gracious hostess. I feel everyone should have something to commemorate the occasion. I always have small gifts on hand, extra food, an extra something “just in case”. My husband says, everyone doesn’t need a gift if they come. I am a very spiritual person and I know Christmas isn’t all about the presents. But, it’s a nice gesture, a candy bar, a pair of fuzzy socks, a small gift card inside a Christmas card. Something. Just to know I thought about you.
Social skills are something that is taught. If you don’t know what fork to use, it’s okay. It doesn’t hurt anyone’s feelings if you use the wrong fork. But bringing something for the hostess, a dish to share, a smile, a small token, card or conversation always helps. It shows appreciation for the time spent trying to make sure your time is well spent. I understand if money is tight, I know the feeling. It doesn’t cost anything to have a great conversation and compliment someone on a job well done. Rudeness doesn’t do this, lack of social skills. I just pray and hope that it doesn’t carry on to the next generation.