When taste is absent… the simplest dealings become a burden

Etiquette: The Art of Dealing with Others

In our Arab society, we have lost a great deal of courtesy in our daily interactions, and we have not given it the priority it deserves despite its importance. People have become less considerate of others' feelings and neglect to care for them, under the excuse of life's pressures and busy schedules.

Eventually, this neglect has become mutual, and poor treatment has become mutual too. Responding to bad behavior with more bad behavior is now widespread. Yet life is built on our interactions with one another, on positive feelings, and on happiness.

That is why it is so important for us to revive the art of dealing with people, which is etiquette.

Etiquette is not only about appearances or table manners, as some people think. It is built on refined, ethical conduct, following the example of our Noble Prophet. It is about behaving appropriately, in the right place, and in a dignified way.

Etiquette is the art of dealing with others with courtesy and refinement, and with respect for yourself and for them.

What is the best age to learn etiquette?

The best age to start learning etiquette is around seven. Before that, children learn mainly through modeling: they imitate how their family treats others and how they eat. A young child's mind is like a sponge, absorbing every behavior without questioning it. This is what we call modeling.

How does learning etiquette affect the individual and society?

Its effect is positive, and the positive feelings it creates benefit both the individual and the community. These benefits include:

- Greater success, productivity, and happiness.

- Stronger, longer-lasting relationships of every kind, because they rest on courtesy, appreciation, care, and respect for other people's feelings.

It is best when this behavior comes from a person who is psychologically and morally healthy. I believe this is essential for practicing courteous, refined conduct, and also for receiving it from others with the same value.

Some people make you feel happy and uplifted just by being around them. These are the people who should be in our inner circle, because positive feelings, happiness, and refined manners are all contagious.

Among the effects of courtesy on our society are fewer conflicts, higher productivity, and the progress of peoples and nations.