Hats Off
Growing up, our household had strict rules pertaining to hats.
These days, walk into any restaurant and you’ll see hats everywhere. Men, women, everybody wearing hats indoors. But back in my day, things were different. A gentleman removed his hat as he stepped inside the house. And if you happened to stroll in wearing your ball cap, well, you took it off immediately, apologized to your mother, and prayed your dad wasn’t home.
And you never, ever wore your hat at the dining room table. N-E-V-E-R. Had I dared to do such a thing, my dad would’ve swiftly knocked that hat clean off... with my head still attached to it!
Manners, that’s what we called ‘em. My dad was a stickler for good ol’ fashioned respect. He taught us to rise when a woman entered the room, pull out her chair at the table, and always open her doors. Not just car doors, but any door.
Now, dad wasn’t the only one establishing a foundation of respect. My mom played her part, too. She taught us about place settings; where to place the spoon, knife, and forks, and which knife was to be used for fish or steak or whatever was prepared. She made sure we knew where the drinking glass belonged, as well.
Oh, and elbows on the table? Absolutely forbidden. Dad’s dinner rules were simple: sit up straight, eat in a civilized manner, engage in pleasant conversation, and mind your manners. One time, as I guzzled down a big glass of iced tea, Dad was quick to correct me. “Quit washing your food down, son! Put down the glass and chew your food.” Lesson learned, Dad. Lesson learned.
Yes, when it comes to the traditions and rules of respect, it takes a village. This past week, my three-year-old great-grandson was at the house, rattling off words at a pace I couldn’t fathom. I truly have no idea how he does it. When I was his age, I could barely babble a word or two. Yet here he is, chattering away. He’s probably smarter than me, already.
His mama, grandma, great-grandma, grandfather, great-grandfather, and all his siblings are banding together to raise him up right. Sure, it may look a little different these days. A little less strict, perhaps, and softer around the edges. But a firm foundation of respect, nonetheless.
We could use a little more of that these days.
So, friends, as we pass these lessons on to the younger generations, let's continue to emulate and emphasize kindness, compassion, consideration, and, yes, the importance of taking your hat off at the dinner table.
Be well. Stay well. Thanks for readin’.
Francis Pass
P.S. – My dad always said, “Respect someone until they give you a reason not to. And when they do, make sure it’s your reason, not someone else’s." Wise words, wouldn't you say?