On table manners

Amidst today's fast-paced world of technological innovation and casual lifestyles, manners logically adapt to new situations and circumstances. Social and time-honored traditions blend and transform into new ways, and the roles and expectations of adults and children evolve to meet those trends. However, despite continuous changes, social politeness and courtesy remain rooted in the guiding principles of respect, concern, thoughtfulness and honesty.

An individual may take on a superficial coating of breeding, but it is very difficult to overcome sloppy and careless table manners. And poor manners at the table can be a real deterrent to social and even business progress.

Eating together as a family is more than just taking a meal. It is an opportunity for families to come together regularly and promotes family unity. Admittedly there is no guarantee that eating together will resolve all family problems, but it may provide the opportunity to make a fresh start.

Here are some pointers to keep in mind while at the dining table:

.Do not read or watch television during meals because mealtimes are a good chance for the  family to sit together.

.Avoid slurping, smacking or blowing your nose. If necessary, excuse yourself to take care of whatever it is you need to take care of.

.Chew with your mouth closed and do not talk with your mouth full.

.Burping is not considered polite.

.Don't pick your teeth at the table.

.Remember to use your napkins at all times and they should never be refolded.

.Do not play with your food, and finish everything that is on your plate.

.Wait until you're done chewing to sip or swallow a drink.

.Cut only one piece of food at a time.

.Instead of reaching across the table for something, ask                for it to be passed to you. And always use the word  "please" and "thank you."

.Wait till everyone has finished eating before getting up               from the table.

.Excuse yourself before leaving the table. But do not announce loudly that you have to go to the bathroom.

.Do not turn meals into an unpleasant "lecture time" that will turn kids off not only to manners, but to dinner and to you too.

.Avoid slouching and don't place your elbows on the table while eating, though it is okay to prop your elbows on the table while conversing between courses.

.The fork is never cleaned by wiping it on the knife or a piece of bread or on the edge of a plate. If it is not in use, it is returned to the plate, not held in mid-air during   conversation.

.The tipping of soup or dessert dishes is acceptable if the plate is tipped away from the eater, not toward him.

.Check your own example. Do not show up for meals in pajamas or underwear unless you want your kids to do the   same.

Good manners are lifetime assets where the rewards are countless and the cost is negligible.