Thursday, June 4, 2009

More than Etiquette

Fr. Rutler on manners. Good manners are more than etiquette. To quote:
John Henry Cardinal Newman defined the gentleman, and perforce the lady, in cadences which have become almost as incomprehensible as the terms "gentleman" and "lady" themselves. "It is almost a definition of a gentleman to say he is one who never inflicts pain." And it is a very good thing to have a double standard: Eve is supposed to civilize Adam, and when a woman is vulgar she shows her man the exit from paradise. In speaking of pain inflicted, Newman speaks of moral care for the consciences of others. The gentleman puts others at ease and "makes light of favours while he does them, and seems to be receiving when he is conferring." He does not slander or gossip, treats his enemy as a potential friend, and is "merciful to the absurd."
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2 comments:

Lucy said...

I love this post Elena! Many people often think manners is all about being too prissy- that's sooo wrong. Manners is all about showing others you care about them and their feelings- It's such a way of giving. Thanks for posting about this:)

elena maria vidal said...

So true! Manners are just an attitude of consideration. Glad you like the post!