DEAR MISS MANNERS: A co-worker called me out because I do not respond to her “good morning” greeting by saying “good morning” as well, although I do acknowledge her greeting. I was more than a little upset with her stance that I was responding inappropriately, because she takes the attitude that she is always right about such things.
However, this same pillar of politeness speaks with her mouth full of food -- often. It’s frankly annoying and disgusting. And neither of us is a youngster; we are both well over 50 and should know better.
How can I (politely) point out her lack of manners? I’m a little uncomfortable stating, “Imogene, please stop talking with your mouth full.”
GENTLE READER: Interesting that while you objected to this co-worker correcting your manners, you are enlisting Miss Manners to help you to do the same. She is more than happy to do so, she just wants some acknowledgment of the duplicity.
“I am so sorry that I caught you while you were eating. I will come back at a more convenient time” is a polite way to ask her to finish her food before talking.
Not for nothing, “good morning” can reasonably be expected to be responded to in kind.