Just Ask Elizabeth: Being Civil To Others

Dear Elizabeth,

As I watch television or check in with my social media, I am astounded by the lack of civility of some people. Some people talk right over others as they are speaking, interrupt conversations that they are not a part of, and then proceed to tell others that their manners are less than stellar. How do you deal with this?

Manners are Needed in Merced

Dear Manners are Needed in Merced,

I agree with you 100%. When I recently expressed a different opinion than a friend, they immediately accused me of having bad manners. No, I just think differently than you, was my answer, and I have limited contact with this friend. It is the only way that I could get my point across. After a few weeks, she called and apologized for her rude behavior. Sometimes we need a “time out” from these people. And I sent her the list of Good Medicine Society choices for her to think about. Good luck.