opinion : manners (or lack there of)

this silly parenting website has a list of manners that they say every kid should learn. (formatted as a annoying online slide show) based on my daily interactions, I would say that they are not aiming high enough however. Here is my directly copied and modified list, manners that everyone should learn:

1. When asking for something, say "Please."

2. When receiving something, say "Thank you."

3. Do not interrupt others who are speaking with each other unless there is an emergency.

4. If you do need to get somebody's attention right away, the phrase "excuse me" is the most polite way for you to enter the conversation

5. When you have any doubt about doing something, ask permission first. It can save you from many hours of grief later

6. The world is not interested in what you dislike. Keep negative opinions to yourself, and do not offer criticism unless you are also offering a constructive solution.

7. Do not comment on other people's physical characteristics unless, of course, it's to compliment them, which is always welcome.

8. When people ask you how you are, tell them and then ask them how they are.

9. When you have spent time at someone else's house, remember to thank them for having you over and for the good time you had.

10. Knock on closed doors -- and wait to see if there's a response -- before entering.

11. When you make a phone call, introduce yourself first and then ask if you can speak with the person you are calling.

12. Be appreciative and say "thank you" for any gift you receive. In the age of e-mail, a handwritten thank-you note can have a powerful effect.

13. Never use foul language in public.

14. Don't call people mean names.

15. Do not make fun of anyone for any reason

16. Even if a play or an assembly is boring, sit through it quietly and pretend that you are interested. The performers and presenters are doing their best.

17. If you bump into somebody, immediately say "Excuse me."

18. Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze, and don't pick your nose in public.

19. As you walk through a door, look to see if you can hold it open for someone else.

20. If you come across another person working on something and you have a minute, ask if you can help.

21. When someone asks you for a reasonable favor, do it without grumbling and with a smile.

22. When someone helps you, say "thank you." That person will likely want to help you again.

23. Use eating utensils properly. If you are unsure how to do so, look it up

24. Keep a napkin on your lap; use it to wipe your mouth when necessary.

25. Don't reach for things at the table; ask to have them passed.

and now for a few of mine:

26. do not ask about what you can look up.

27. do not interrupt an in-person conversation for a cell phone conversation (unless its an emergency)

28. look at people when you are talking to them.

29. If you borrow something, always return it in the same condition.

30. clean up after yourself, don't ever expect others to do it for you.

31. do not attempt to push a controversial opinion on others unless you know what you are talking about and can back it up.

32. when talking about politics, avoid these: http://www.logicalfallacies.info/

33. never take credit for what you did not do.