UPDATE: Renowned etiquette expert Miss Manners has just addressed a pressing issue surrounding phone etiquette at dinner tables. With increasing concerns over hygiene, particularly for immunocompromised individuals, the discussion is gaining traction among social circles.
A concerned reader recently reached out to Miss Manners, explaining that their friend frequently shares photos by passing around his cellphone during meals. Given that the reader’s husband is immunocompromised, they are understandably hesitant to touch the device. In a world where phone-sharing has become a common practice, the reader seeks a polite way to express discomfort without offending their friend.
Miss Manners recommends a dual approach: either privately discuss the matter with the friend or publicly declare the table a device-free zone. This immediate solution addresses health concerns while maintaining social grace. For those caught in similar situations, Miss Manners offers a clever tactic: stand up, approach your husband, and intercept the phone under the guise of sharing excitement about the photos. This allows for a smooth transition without drawing attention to the discomfort.
In a separate query, another reader expressed frustration over a neighbor’s post-Christmas open house invitation that lacked an RSVP request. Miss Manners asserts that etiquette dictates responding to invitations, even without explicit RSVP details. A polite decline is acceptable, maintaining social kindness amidst uncertainty.
Lastly, Miss Manners tackled the dilemma of traveling with friends who do not share the same interests. She emphasizes that individuals are not obligated to travel together, but should tactfully avoid discussing plans when asked. This approach allows for personal travel preferences while preserving friendships.
With these insights, Miss Manners provides invaluable guidance for navigating the complexities of modern social interactions. Readers are encouraged to reflect on their own etiquette challenges and consider how they might apply these lessons in their daily lives. Share your thoughts and experiences to join the conversation around these pressing social issues.
