DEAR ABBY: If you have room for one more letter about "Disillusioned in Dallas," the gentleman whose manners were unappreciated, feel free to print mine. I am female, and I, too, live in Dallas -- and I'm wondering if this is indigenous to the women of our city.
I am happily married to a mannerly gentleman (one of the many traits that make him so desirable), and we have recently begun teaching our young son the social graces. He practices holding doors open for women while we're out shopping. He smiles as he props his 4-year-old body against the door to hold it open, and incredible as it sounds, not one woman under the age of 50 has ever thanked him.
When this occurs, I forgo my manners and say to my son (loudly enough for the offender to hear), "She should've thanked you, but her manners aren't as good as yours." I would have to say the same applies to "Disillusioned's" acquaintances.
If these rude, self-absorbed women aren't appreciative of, or touched by, the efforts of a young boy, it's no surprise that they're equally unappreciative of such courtesies extended by the gentleman they choose to date.
Abby, please tell "Disillusioned" to continue his courteous, respectful manners, and I will continue teaching them to my son. The women of Dallas have a legacy of being some of the most beautiful, successful women in the country. I'm hopeful that in the future, they'll also be known for their good manners. -- DETERMINED IN DALLAS
DEAR DETERMINED: Anyone who would ignore the efforts of a child to do the right thing must have a heart of stone. A stranger pausing to praise a child for being well-behaved or practicing good manners can leave an even more lasting impression than when a parent does it.
Stick to your guns, Mom, and continue to teach your son the social graces. They're still something that well-bred people need to know.