Social Decorum Delight

A while back, I had a beautiful observation while dining at one of my favourite restaurants. A young couple I would assume to be in their mid-twenties walked in hand-in-hand. They seemed happy and enjoying each other’s company. After being shown to their table they continued conversing.

Shortly thereafter, a nicely dressed gentleman was also shown to their table. As soon as they saw him the young couple got up and the young lady and the gentleman hugged, after which the two men shook hands. I was left with the impression that the gentleman was the young lady’s father. They ordered drinks, and then later, their meal, as is custom when one visits a restaurant.

However, I could not help but notice that something beautiful was going on with these three individuals…they were engaged with one another and, not with their devices! I was intrigued by their sense of ease in conversing with one another, as much as it was obvious that the two gentlemen had just met for the first time.

When their meal got to the table it was interesting to witness the grace with which they handled their entrees. The younger gentleman had ordered a sandwich – a meal that one may consider an easy lunch item. Yet, depending on the restaurant preparing it, it can be one of those challenging choices. Sandwiches can be awkward to handle, drippy and stacked too thick. However, the young gentleman knew how to handle the challenge before him! He used his fork and knife to clean up and bring the sandwich to a size that was tidy enough to be eaten without one having to open their mouth as if they were about to attack a bear.

The young lady and her father, too, had amazing decorum and knew how to handle their cutlery appropriately. It was such a pleasure to witness this. With etiquette and civility dying in most societies, this was a refreshing reminder that there is still hope for goodness and culture in society and that all is not lost.