By Toma Lynn Smith
What I want for Christmas are my fellow college students to take the initiative to learn about manners and to be patient. I don’t think my requests are much and I do understand that everyone is very busy, which may contribute to them being inconsiderate.
My first request would be for those in the quiet part of the library gabbing on their cell phones. It would be very polite if you wouldn’t answer your cell phone. Also, instead of an annoying music ring tone, put it on vibrate or silent, and if it really needs to be answered, step into another area to talk privately not publicly.
Along with that is the volume of others’ .mp3 players. I love music too, but I don’t want to hear your music, especially when it is being funneled through a set of earphones upon someone’s head.
Another request is for those driving. Especially for those who honk their horn, when it is not necessary. Maybe you should get your vision checked? Because I am letting a pedestrian walk past does not mean I don’t see the light is green. We both know they shouldn’t be walking until the sign says to do so, but I’m not going to run over them just because you’re honking.
Along with these pet peeves, is another one regarding public displays of affection. Recently at a concert, I witnessed a couple sucking face and grabbing each other excessively. They paid for their tickets as I did, but I didn’t pay to see them making out right in front of me.
All of these can be easily fixed with the attitude “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” Sorry to use a quote from Jesus, but it is Christmas, despite the holiday hoopla that surrounds it.
As a gift to yourself and others, learn some manners.
It is hard being around each other in such close proximity within University of Louisville’s commuter campus, but it is only going to get worse as finals approach and the holiday season is upon us.
As we encounter each other over this season, let’s be thoughtful of our actions to each other. I hope during the season of “joy” that we give each other the gift of being considerate to one another.
