Is it good manners or just common sense?

In the last few weeks this question just keeps coming into my head every time I see or experience what I call rude behavior. So I have decided to share my thoughts and experiences on my blog. I hope that others will share their comments and experiences with me.

I truly want to help bring about more awareness and civility to our every day interactions with those around us.

The first experience to share is when people stop when they step inside or outside a door way (or elevator, escalator, bus, train, etc), blocking passage for the people behind them. This happened at the grocery store the other day, two women walked into the store and stopped to wipe their hands and cart with a sanitation towel provided by the store. As I approached the entrance there were five people waiting to enter while these dear ladies were totally unaware that they had blocked the entrance.

I was amazed that the people in line waited for them to finish and move on with their shopping. No one was rude or made an unkind comment; being in Phoenix, AZ on a summer afternoon these people deserve recognition for their kindness and patience they showed that very hot day.

This situation is a perfect example of the “good” and the “bad” of being aware of the world around us and being kind to each other.

What do you think – is it having good manners or just using common sense?