Civilised behaviour no longer the norm

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The word ‘manners’ is described as behaviour in societal interaction; polite social behaviour and habits indicating good breeding. At one point in time and until not many years ago, these were considered to be the hallmark to judging a person’s upbringing. One of the best compliments is that he/she has ‘such good manners.’ This involves many small gestures — offering your seat or standing up when elders enter a room, especially women; not pushing and shoving while entering or leaving a place and other gestures which make for considerate conduct. Those who practice these civilized ways are labeled ‘old fashioned’ and mocked for their good manners.
There is a growing trend towards uncivilised behaviour, especially among the younger generation. Observe the attitude of salesmen when you go into a shop. There used to be a time when the man behind the counter would greet you and ask after your health and salesmen would readily help you with your shopping. Nowadays they sit or stand around with sullen faces and you wonder whether they are there to help or spoil your mood! This is particularly noticeable in most shoe shops — and it is only when the equally uninterested manager is looking their way do they show any alacrity in taking care of your order/needs. As for wishing you a cheery ‘Asalam alikum’ forget it! Even this fundamental greeting between Muslims has been relegated to days gone by. There are a few, rare exceptions and when you encounter such polite conduct it definitely makes you feel good — like when you go to a good hotel or restaurant. Looking at this with a cynical attitude, this may be because a good tip is expected!
Anyway, sad to say good manners/etiquette are no longer the norm and a majority of the population around the world is becoming careless about practicing these traits, the espousing of which definitely makes a person stand out from the crowd and shows his/her fine upbringing. While the younger generation is heading more and more towards casual behaviour — with inappropriate mobile phone usage at the top of the list — and care two hoots what anyone thinks, it is sad to see that even many of those who should know better are heading in the same direction. You have only to observe the behaviour of guests at a diplomatic reception to get the point. While the host or guest of honour is making a speech, only those standing in front listen to them, the others keep on chattering as if the world will come to an end if they stop talking for a minute! We are all becoming inconsiderate, while assuming a ‘couldn’t care less’ attitude towards others that’s getting worse by the day.