Minding Your Manners

Dear Alisa and Gina,

 I have a friend who always makes fun of my manners. They’re not perfect, but I was raised to put my napkin in my lap, set the table a certain way, and wait until everyone is served before eating. Oh, and I always stand up when someone new comes into the room. My friend thinks I’m a snob. I think it’s just polite. Should I say something - and if so, what? - Miss Manners

Flip her the bird…discreetly of course, as your mother would want you to. ~ Gina

If you are doing what makes you comfortable, then keep on doing it. I think having good manners and being polite need not be synonymous with failing to make your needs known. If your friend actually says something to you – or makes you uncomfortable then you have two choices: tell her that her behavior hurts or angers you or write it off to her own upbringing and leave it behind. Most importantly, don’t waste your energy carrying it around. ~Alisa