DEAR ABBY: Our family recently attended my daughter's high school graduation. Seated next to us was a couple who talked to each other during the entire commencement -- until the man's cell phone began ringing. Then he continued to carry on a loud conversation over the phone. Needless to say, it was a major distraction for all of us who were seated near him.
This is not the first time such a thing has happened, and I know it won't be the last. People who talk while others are trying to listen do not seem to care that they're disruptive and disrespectful.
This happens everywhere nowadays -- church, business meetings, movies and plays. Growing up, I was taught to listen with respect and never interrupt others.
I have tried to politely ask the offender to "keep it down," or have gotten up and moved to a quieter location, but sometimes it's impossible.
Has our society gotten so "me-oriented" that we've forgotten the common courtesy of being quiet while others are speaking? Maybe you or your readers can share what works for them in order to stay calm during situations like this. -- LOSING MY COOL IN LYNCHBURG, VA.
DEAR LOSING MY COOL: Cell phones are a boon to many people. But used thoughtlessly, they also create very real problems. Of COURSE people should observe the rules of common courtesy and turn them off at public events. And people who converse on their cell phones in public places should remember to do so discreetly -- not only because to do otherwise is inconsiderate of those around them, but also because they can unwittingly reveal personal information that could come back to haunt them.