The Virtues of Courtesy and Compassion

A philosophy I hold near and dear to my heart is to be polite and kind towards others. It not only reflects on me as an individual, but on my family as the ones who raised me. My every word and action mirrors my families ethics and mannerisms. To behave crudely and discredit them would be disgraceful. Aside from how my conduct portrays my family's ideals, it also shows others who I am personally. Being considerate and respectful are not only characteristics I exhibit, but what I expect in return. Never have I known someone who found a rude and mean spirited person appealing. I myself have also never found reason to dislike a friendly person. Why would one despise someone who held open the door with a smile or was genuinely concerned with the other's well-being or happiness is unknown to me. What I do know is that helping people makes me feel good about myself, even if a little gratitude is always appreciated.