Check Your ‘Tude, Dude

Do you think your fellow Americans are getting ruder? A new survey (Rasmussen Reports) finds that 69% of us think the Rudeness Meter is drifting upward. An optimistic 14% say we’re mellowing out, and another 17% are clueless.

Here’s my question. I’d like to know where the hap-hap-happy 14 percent are living because I’m moving there. Or else I want some of what they’re smoking.

In my opinion, humanity as a whole is acting like a spoiled teenager. We’re rude, self-centered, and oblivious.

As I get older, I’m more sensitive to others’ behavior and I’m not afraid to say something to them when they’re out of line, much to Keeper’s embarrassment. But hey, I’m in the majority here. According to the study, 51% of us have called someone on their behavior in public.

While I seldom directly confront people who are behaving badly (for fear they will focus their objectionable behavior on ME) I have been known to comment under my breath.

For instance, when someone cuts in front of me in a line, I might say, “Obviously you are more important than I am. Go ahead and cut in front of me.”

Or when someone fails to return my greeting on the street, I tell them, “Apparently that cell phone on your ear has rendered you deaf.”

Sure, it’s passive-aggressive. And no, it doesn’t do anything to improve their manners, but I’ve come to the conclusion that most people don’t care to improve themselves. They just want you to get out of their way.

Among the rude I encountered this week alone:

A young man at the entrance to Office Depot who let go of the door, hitting me in the face. He went on his way, oblivious.

The young man behind me whose car audio system made my Subaru (and my head) vibrate and throb. And he had his windows closed. I hope he’s saving up for a Miracle Ear.

The young man (I’m noticing a trend here) who persisted in his effort to sell me magazines at my door, despite the “no soliciting” sign and my complete disinterest.

The young women (gotcha!) who walked three abreast down the sidewalk, so busy exchanging words of wisdom (Like, OMG!) that they forced me into the street.

The pet owner whose dog relieved himself right outside my front gate. Pooper scooper, anyone?

And that’s just the last few days.

My opinion of my fellow human beings’ manners is at an all-time low.

Anybody know a cure for rampant rudeness?