I believe in change and evolution. Change is healthy. Change is inevitable. Accepting change however does not mean we should quit thinking about others and let good manners continue to die to the point of near extinction. Simple acts of courtesy and good manners do make a huge difference to the world in which we all live in. Remember, "It is not just your world.”

I can hear it now "Fletch you are just a cranky old man." People can think what they like. I wont change my mind on this one. Some people do not know what courtesy is or have just deliberately chosen to be ignorant and self-indulgent. For those who have here is a random refresher…

• When a lady or someone elderly gets on a train, bus or any other form of transport (don’t bury your head in your paper) get up and offer them a seat
• When someone sends you a gift, send a thank you note
• Turn up on time. And if you can’t, let them know when you will be there.
• Don’t listen into others conversations or read over someone’s shoulder
• Don’t interrupt someone when they are talking allow them to finish
• Help elderly people or anyone that requires assistance - it might be you some day
• If someone seems lost, ask if they need directions – again it might be you some day
• If you are invited to someone’s place for dinner, don’t just go for the free feed; bring a gift for the host
• Turn off your mobile phone when at the dinner table, in a waiting room or when meeting with people.
• If your nose is running use a hanky and blow it – don’t sniff and sniff and sniff (don’t fart or burp in public either - it is not funny!)
• Open the door and let others go first. If you go through the door first hold it open for the next person.
• If someone holds open a door for you, say thank you
• When you meet and speak with someone look them in the eye and have the courtesy to listen to what they have to say.
• Say good morning to others when you pass them in the street
• When you are eating at a shopping centre put your rubbish in the bin when you’re finished
• Cover your nose when you sneeze and your mouth when you yawn
• Offer the plate of food to others before you take some for yourself piggy!
• Thank and acknowledge other drivers for allowing you to merge 
• Say thank you to any person who has assisted you in any way

Fletch’s Big Tip: If some of these actions of courtesy or others have eluded you in recent years write them down as resolutions for 2012. Read them daily and put them into action. You will be amazed the difference it will make to others and you. You could even have a little practice this Christmas!

Thank you very much to everyone who subscribes to my Journal entries.  Wishing you all a great Christmas and a very happy and successful 2012.