Letter: Rudeness has taken over

Monday, May 19, 2003 | 9 a.m.

What has happened to us as a people? In the last few years I have noticed a terrible force that has entered our air space and has totally taken over the attitudes of the people. It is the force of rudeness.

I have even allowed it to enter my space because of what I have received from others. However, that does not make it right. Just because someone puts something in my face, does not mean I have to receive it, or spread it.

It has come to the point that I can no longer accept it. How about you? Has anyone else recognized this horrible existence we have allowed ourselves to live in? The rudeness encompasses the attitude or tone of voice one uses in responding to a question, gesture, or even a compliment. Come on, people, we have got to wake up. This is the only life we are given. There is no reason for us to walk around being rude.

I was thinking one day that maybe the rudeness has to do with unhappiness. If that is the case, then let's bring back the phrase "don't worry, be happy." A smile can go a long way; politeness can go even further. Just think about customer service -- it is absolutely horrible nowadays.

So, I implore each and every one of us to take a deep look at ourselves, and see what we can do as individuals to make this world a happy place. We have gone through wars, acts of terrorism, violence of all kinds, and we have allowed these acts to permeate our lives.

Let's stop it -- let's show rudeness that we can overcome it, and take full authority over it. Let's make a difference -- even a small one will have a major effect. I would like to impart these final words -- with a smile that is as big as the sun, "Have a great and awesome day."

WANDA SINGLETON