A Book of Courtesy

Manners for a new millennium -- a charming gift to the world, from the Sisters who have upheld the virtues of the courteous life for almost a century"You may not think living with others is an art but it is the finest and most difficult of arts. By learning it early in life you save yourself many unpleasant experiences"."Be careful not to hold your knife and fork like weapons. It is perfectly proper to talk with the knife and fork in your hands, but do not wave around a fork or any other utensil, with or without food on it. The knife should never be raised more than an inch or two above the plate"."Cheerfulness and good spirits allow a person to live with a positive attitude; no one enjoys a grumbler or complainer. A positive outlook makes him a pleasant companion"."Avoid wounding the feelings of others by inconsiderate remarks or allusions or by repeating unkind criticisms you have heard. No one appreciates hearing disagreeable things about one's self"."It is not a duty to be brutally honest"."There is no excuse for appearing on someone's doorstep without telephoning first to inquire if your visit would be convenient. Even if a friend has invited you to stop by at any time, be sensitive to his or her mood and needs whenever you do, and take special care that you conclude your visit well before mealtime, so that you won't put him or her in the position of having to feed you".