By Cheryl Mattox Berry
Periodically, I jot down rules to live by. You may recall that I got the idea from two California girls who became popular after their notebook full of rules was lost and returned to them. The rules I come up with usually pop into my head when I see something outrageous.
Whether I’m traveling, shopping or watching a movie, something or someone catches my eye. Sometimes the behavior is funny, but more often than not it isn’t. And that is how it becomes a rule. Here is the latest installment of rules to live by:
1. Say “good morning” to the people who live with you. Sure, they’re your relatives, but it’s the polite thing to do.
2. Don’t encourage younger siblings, nieces and cousins to dress like you. Let them dress like little girls, and give them something to look forward to when they reach your age.
3. Flipping or tossing your hair may seem harmless, but it might get in the face of someone standing behind you or their food if they’re eating. Yuck!
4. Don’t say “what?” when you don’t hear someone ask a question or make a statement. That word is so rude. A better response would be “excuse me” or “I’m sorry, I didn’t hear you.”
5. In airports and other public places, be considerate when using the power station. Others may be waiting to plug in.
6. Remove earphones or turn down music to avoid screaming when talking to another person.
7. Don’t stretch your legs over the back of a seat at the movie theater.
8. Explain to younger children that they must be quiet when the movie starts so that they don’t disturb other movie goers. If they get noisy, take them outside until they calm down.
9. Don’t put your feet on the dashboard while riding in the car.
10. Don’t expect to be admitted if an establishment posts a dress code and you aren’t in compliance.