The Lost Art Of Manners: A Father's Perspective
As a proud father of 18-year-old academic athletes, I reflect on a virtue that seems increasingly scarce in our younger generation: manners. From an early age, I prioritized teaching my sons the importance of respect, courtesy, and decorum—qualities that serve as cornerstones for a well-ordered society. These lessons are not just about etiquette for etiquette's sake but about cultivating kindness, respect, and a sense of humanity in every interaction.
When I say manners, I mean the ability to navigate social situations with grace and respect. It’s knowing how to sit down in a restaurant, select the correct utensils, order from a menu, and most importantly, treat those serving your meal with dignity. In my view, how a person interacts with service staff—whether at a restaurant, hotel, or anywhere else—is a clear window into their character.
Manners also encompass the simple, yet powerful, acts of saying "please," "thank you," and "no, thank you." Addressing others with respect, whether it’s using titles like “Doctor,” “Mr.,” “Mrs.,” or “Miss,” reinforces the value of acknowledging someone’s identity and achievements. A firm handshake, direct eye contact, and a sincere “pleasure to meet you” can leave a lasting impression.
I live in a high-rise building where I frequently encounter younger individuals, and it’s disheartening how often simple courtesies are overlooked. How many people hold the elevator for others or allow women or older adults to exit first? How many take a moment to greet neighbors with a cheerful "good morning" or "good evening"? These small gestures cost nothing but enrich our daily lives.
Another aspect of manners is the way we present ourselves. Dressing appropriately for an occasion—whether it's knowing how to tie a tie, wear a suit, or select formal attire—shows respect for the event and those in attendance. I’ve instilled in my sons the belief that dressing well is not about vanity but about conveying dignity and self-respect.
One of the most overlooked expressions of good manners is the handwritten note. When was the last time you received a thank-you card in the mail? In our age of instant communication, the simple act of writing a note to express gratitude for a gift or an invitation feels almost archaic, yet its impact is profound. It shows effort, thoughtfulness, and appreciation in a way that an email or text never can.
Manners are not just about rules; they are about relationships. They bring order to chaos, foster goodwill, and create a ripple effect of positivity in society. Smiling, holding doors, and dressing with care are small acts with significant meaning. As parents, it’s our responsibility to teach these values to our children because if we don’t, who will?
Let’s embrace old-school manners and pass them on to the next generation. The benefits extend beyond individual interactions—they build stronger communities and a kinder, more respectful world.
Anthony Prusak
Anthony "Tony" Prusak is a distinguished business development professional with a proven track record of driving revenue growth through innovative new account strategies. A 1986 graduate of Parma Senior High, Tony went on to earn a BA in Hotel Administration from Mercyhurst University. Throughout his career, he has excelled in cultivating new and existing verticals, demonstrating his expertise in creating impactful strategies that consistently deliver results. As a committed people leader, Tony has a passion for talent development and succession planning. His skills in change management, project oversight, KPI setting, and collaboration with C-suite leadership have been instrumental in shaping and executing business strategies. Beyond his professional achievements, Tony is a proud father of twin sons, Nicholas and Noah Prusak. He currently resides in Lakewood, OH, where he continues to make a positive impact both personally and professionally.