DEAR ABBY: I'm writing about something I have seen happen more and more over the last several years. It's the behavior of young people at funerals.
Respect for the deceased and for those who are genuinely mourning demands that parents caution their children to restrain their natural impulses at funerals or the graveside. This means not running up and down the aisles, no loud talking or laughing, or (as on one memorable occasion), no groping of one's girlfriend or boyfriend. That kind of behavior is never forgotten by mourners and can sometimes result in permanent distaste for the misbehaving child.
Please remind your readers that funerals are highly emotional events, and people should be on their best behavior for the sake of good taste and the feelings of others. -- SADDENED AND OFFENDED IN S.F.
DEAR SADDENED: I'm printing your reminder, but don't blame the children. Blame the parents who allow the misbehavior and disrespect, and who don't care enough for the feelings of those around them to intervene.