Brilliant, Donuel! When I heard this, one of my first impulses was to find it on the internet, cut-and-paste it, and post it here. I got it, saved a copy, and logged in, and lo! you beat me to it.

In this world of retaliation rather than forgiveness, general rudeness, and a spirit of "get out of my way, you SOB!" and "I've got mine, so screw you!" I've found that the common courtesies have become pretty rare, especially in those situations in which the rude one can remain essentially anonymous, such as when encapsulated in an automobile (and strangely enough, even on Mudcat!).

Some years ago, I adopted a practice of, as Corwin mentions, courtesy while driving. I feel good about it, it surprises the hell out of other drivers, and they may feel impelled to do unto others as I did unto them. At the very least, they have a pleasant experience for a change and it may forestall the rush of adrenalin that occurs when someone rushes ahead and cuts them off, instead of smiling and waving them in.

This, and in other situations. Although there are many people in this world who are courteous, kind, and considerate, such simple virtues often seems to be in short supply. The simple acts that we chose—either rudeness or courtesy—are contagious. An excellent example, perhaps, of reaping what we sow.

Don Firth