One of the more disturbing trends over the past few years has been the decline of civility.
That reflects not only all interpersonal relationships, but very foundations of the government and the economy. Civility, courtesy, fairness, self-control, and self-respect have been diminishing virtues for many years.
Some of that is revealed in everyday actions, for instance, offering a seat on public transportation to an obviously pregnant woman, or in other ways, deferring to handicapped individuals.
Recently, a father was shocked when he picked up his daughter at school and noted that the teacher was wearing very brief shorts.
Does such dress lead to respect from students in the classroom?
At the opening of the parliament few months ago, which always is the most formal of occasions, our leaders dressed very casually.
Heretofore, the speech from the throne was delivered by a man in full military regalia or in stripped trousers and a cutaway jacket.
Ladies always wore long dresses on formal occasions.
That tradition emanated from Britain when the Queen was attired in ceremonial robes and others present were formally dressed, with nobles in ermine-wrapped capes, and all the ladies suitable clothed.
Question period in the House of Commons used to be the occasion set aside for seeking information from the government of the day; as anyone now can attest it has degenerated into an unruly spectacle, when all who respect that institution are embarrassed by the unseemly behaviour of the members.
When our politicians do not act with civility, the nation’s business is impeded, obviously, to the detriment of us all.
Not too long ago visitors to parliament has to be dressed properly.
If a male tourist were in shirt sleeves, the guard loaned him a jacket to be worn there.
If a woman were not suitably dressed, paper skirts were presented before admittance.
At a university memorial hall where inscribed the names of members of the armed forces killed in combat, male passersby took off their hats as a gesture of honour and due regard.
No more.
In the 1950s, movie theaters, before the film was shown, played the national anthem and pictures of Canada were shown on the screen. Concerts began with the national anthem. The graciousness reflected patriotic courtesy and led to ingrained pride of our country.
In retail stores or on the telephone older customers whom sales people do not know are called by their first names.
We must hope that civility returns to everyday life, making for much more pleasant and smoothly run society.