Mrs. Van der Loop's Blog

"Unknown Call"

As you well know, I am not amused by the proliferation of cellular phones in modern society. In elevators, on trains, in fine restuarants, you hear these cellular cretins jabbering ceaslessly--to whom, I cannot even begin to fathom. I myself own a cellular phone, which I turn off when I am in public places. Recently, I have discovered another egregious transgression of the cellular "lifestyle." I am talking about the call that comes in labled as "unknown" or "private call." This is akin to admitting carte blanche any stranger who comes knocking at one's door. Several of my friends ring up in this manner, and I simply refuse to answer. Good breeding demands an introduction before social intercourse commences. Take heed.

Unseemliness

Just now, in the elevator, I encountered a man. A well-dressed man who looked to be a banker or perhaps in business of some kind. As a matter of common courtesy, I looked him in the eye and gave a slight bow his way. What did this "gentleman" do? He stared at me as if I was a lunatic. For one person to look directly at another and not acknowledge the other’s bow is such a breach of civility that only an unforgivable misdemeanor can warrant the rebuke.