Editorial: Finding value through manners and chivalry

As I reflect on the person who I am today, I do not forget the young man or boy I use to be. Those characteristics helped shape me to be in the position. The one thing that I can carry today that I hope we all start to do is display proper manners and chivalry.

I’m “old school” in my heart. I was raised by a family where “please” and “thank you” were high on the priority list. I hold doors for ladies (young and old) and offer a hand to assist others. I ask for help when needed, and I do not take things for granted.

But in today’s buzzling world, the mindset is to get mine and get it as fast as you can. I do not fault anybody for working hard to get the finances they need to live day-to-day, but sometimes the bigger goals in life are often overlooked because of this. I’m not saying it’s wrong or right. I’m saying that sometimes priorities and selflessness can be more impactful than the almighty dollar bill.

One of the prime examples that I know I am forever thankful is when I see volunteers working concession stands at athletic events. No matter if it’s recreation, middle school, or high school, little nuances make the environment more pleasurable. A person working that stand can just smile and it makes a huge difference in what is going on.

I get that same feeling when I open doors and I thank people when dropping off the newest edition of “The Chronicle.” These people do not have to let us place boxes outside their stores or let us put papers inside of their walls. Instead, they do because it’s an ongoing cycle for community support. Advertisers support the Chronicle and in turn, we place the paper in stores. The paper in stores attracts customers and allows them to read the newest edition in what happens in their community. This, in turn, attracts the eyes of those advertisers who support us. Every time I drop off papers and I see a representative of that office or store, I truly say “thank you” because it affects me personally to connect with both businesses and readers.

I hope people can learn that little things do make a world of difference, especially in the localities that we live in. A smile works. Kind words work. And working in communities that continuously show love to each other definitely works.