Common Courtesy: The Uncommon Virtue

Common courtesy is one of those timeless values that seems to be fading in today’s fast-paced world. It’s the simple act of acknowledging others, sharing space, and being aware of your surroundings—whether on the sidewalk, in a store, or behind the wheel. It costs nothing but speaks volumes about your character. When people stop making room, stop saying “excuse me,” or expect others to always move for them, it’s not just rude—it’s a sign that basic respect is being lost. Let’s bring it back, one thoughtful step at a time.

Common Courtesy: The Uncommon Virtue We All Need to Bring Back

The Invisible

Have you noticed how some people walk around like they own the sidewalk—or the entire street, for that matter? No eye contact. No awareness. Just marching ahead like the world should part for them. One of my biggest pet peeves? When someone walks straight into me like I’m invisible—and I’m the one expected to move.

Here’s a wild idea: If you’re the one not paying attention, maybe you should move.
My hips are vintage, not invisible.

Whatever Happened to Common Courtesy?

Call me old-fashioned, but I still believe common courtesy is a virtue. It’s not outdated—it’s just uncommon these days. Holding the door, acknowledging someone’s space, saying “excuse me”—these small acts say a lot about who you are. They cost nothing but mean everything.

The problem? People don’t pay attention anymore. Everyone’s glued to their phones, zoned out, or in too much of a hurry to notice anyone around them. But awareness matters. Courtesy matters. Especially when you’re sharing space with others—on the sidewalk, in the grocery aisle, or behind the wheel.

Sidewalks and Streets: No, You Don’t Own Them

Let’s clear something up: no one owns the sidewalk. And if you’re walking in a group, taking up the entire path, refusing to yield to someone coming toward you—especially someone older, slower, or with mobility challenges—that’s not confidence. That’s inconsiderate.

Who has the right of way? Common sense and respect should be your guide. Be aware of your surroundings. If someone clearly can’t step aside easily, make space. Move over. Smile. Acknowledge their presence.

As someone in her 60s, I don’t move aside for a perfectly healthy person who sees me coming and refuses to budge out of sheer entitlement. Not anymore. I’ve earned my space on this sidewalk—and I walk it with strength, resilience, and determination.

Courtesy Is a Reflection of Character

Being kind and aware of others—even on a walk—says a lot about your character. Courtesy isn’t weakness. It’s strength wrapped in self-awareness. And in today’s world, that’s something we could all use a little more of.

So the next time you’re out and about, remember:
We’re all sharing space. Be present. Be polite. And for the love of fresh air, don’t play sidewalk chicken with strangers.

Let’s bring courtesy back—it’s one virtue we can all walk behind.

Crosswalks, Phones, and False Confidence

Let’s talk about crosswalks—even at walk signs. I’ve seen it too many times: people glued to their phones, barely glancing up, stepping into the street the moment the little white walking man flashes. No hesitation. No look left or right. Just a blind belief that the world will stop for them. But what happened to looking both ways? What happened to checking for that last driver turning left or someone running a red light?

Yes, you have the right of way. Yes, the driver is legally responsible if they hit you. But is that a risk you really want to take with your life?

This isn’t just about rules—it’s about awareness and self-preservation. Sadly, impatience and entitlement are everywhere these days. People don’t pause. They don’t check their surroundings. It’s like the walk sign gives them permission to walk into traffic without a second thought. But just because the sign says “go” doesn’t mean the coast is clear.

Being present, being alert, and being smart could literally save your life. Common courtesy goes both ways—on the sidewalk and at the crosswalk.