Politeness

Remember the days not long ago
When most people were actually polite
Men would open doors for the ladies
Strangers would wish you goodnight

Drivers would wave another car through
Though they were late for a meeting
Men would get up, give a lady a seat
Today this is rare and quite fleeting

In this age of instant gratification
It's each and every man for himself
A dog-eat-dog world we're living in
Some things I'm guilty of myself

It's really hard to rise above the tide
It's happening all around us each day
You run the risk of getting trampled on
Politeness is not a given, by the way

Do I think this world will ever return
To those simpler days of yore?
Probably not and that's quite a shame
Those were much nicer times, for sure!
Copyright © | Year Posted 2012

Poem

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De Beaulieu Avatar
November 7, 2025 at 10:19 AM
Hello Happy Jack, I do not think this situation will change. I am nice to everyone. I always say have a nice day to everyonbe. When some is coming in to the mall, with hands that are full. I open the door for them. Good to see you/ Love, Darlene/
Breidenthal Avatar
June 3, 2015 at 5:20 AM
Lovely poem, here Jack. Sorry I have not been commenting as much... I've been through a lot of stuff lately. Hope you're doing well- it seems you are, considering you are still writing and making so many smile! Always a pleasure reading from you! Always, Laura
Ellison Avatar
June 3, 2015 at 6:54 AM
Absolutely no need to apologize, my dear sweet Laura! You are the sunshine in my day WHENEVER you come by! Love, Jack xxx
Wright Avatar
August 15, 2012 at 8:38 AM
Great poem, Great message.
Ellison Avatar
June 3, 2015 at 6:50 AM
Thank you my friend... much appreciated! Have a good day!!!
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Book: Diverse Voices: The Poetry of Human Rights and the Pursuit of Peace