Everett Collection
The other day, I stood in line at the grocery store to buy some stamps.
Thank you, have a good day, I said.
Handing me my stamps, she replied, You too, maam!
Credit:Everett Collection
Im 43, well beyond miss territory.
I am not the cashiers boss, or mother, or superior in any way.
A smile and youre welcome, have a good day is more than enough.
In fact, it feels more genuine.
A Personal Choice
This is why I am not teaching my child to saymaam and sir.
Thats a lot to learn!
More than anything, thats what I want him to learn.
Saying maam and sir also makes assumptions about someones gender.
My family’setiquette standardis not going to be the choice of manyor mostfamilies in the South.
In my house, friendliness and politeness are more important than formality.
My kid wont call you maam or sir, but he knows to smile and say thank you.
Were still working on his handshake.
