"I Don't Get No Respect"
Blog: Living Well
January 28, 2010
The late comedian Rodney Dangerfield is remembered for his use of that line in his comedy act, and I remember it, perhaps because the grammar makes me cringe.
This came to mind today as I was reading several emails from readers expressing their appreciation for a wine newsletter I write monthly. I had asked to be notified if anyone wanted to be removed from the mailing list, and in return I received some appreciate replies. How wonderful!
In earlier times, people who wrote regularly for newspapers or magazines seldom heard from readers unless someone wrote a fan letter--or a little hate mail. Nowadays, with news articles and blogs appearing everywhere online, writers can hear almost immediately from their audience. That can be a Good Thing--or maybe not.
We all like to be appreciated and thanked, but often we forget to show others our appreciation for things they do. In this age of almost instant communication, it is so easy to dash off an email saying, "Thank you," "You were so thoughtful," "Appreciate your kindness (or your help, or photo or column or advice...or the chocolate brownies.)" Doing this can really make someone's day brighter, and don't we need "brighter" right now? It isn't just because clouds and fog seem to dominate the weather now, but because so many are struggling with work, if they have it, and tight budgets, and higher prices.
Every day, when I read the news and editorials and blogs in the W.W., I also try to wade through some of the numerous comments. Most of the articles are well-written and thoughtful, and some are entertaining, and once in a while the writer receives a comment of "Well done. Thank you." Most of what I see, however, and what I have ceased to read, is an angry out-pouring of poorly written, ungrammatical, misspelled name-calling and rude dissent.
Is it not possible to comment in a friendly way? Does no one say anything kind or complimentary any more?
I wonder as I walk down the street or through a crowded store: Are many of these people inwardly seething with anger and resentment,but have it hidden behind the facade of an expressionless--or even smiling--face? Has the Internet unleashed a wild person inside of us who, while thinking it is all right to rant and rave and name-call online, would never do the same to someone's face.
When you read something you enjoy or can agree with, why not write a few words of encouragement in the Comment box? It's all right to disagree, too, but in a civil manner. Would you say face-to-face the same things you write?
Being appreciative and telling others you like their work, or who they are or what they stand for is one way of showing respect. Because lack of respect has become an issue of note everywhere, the February Costco Connection magazine has published some websites where we can learn more about this topic. http://www.choosingcivility.org , http://abcnews.go.com/print?id=4989618 are a couple of them.
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Peggy 2 years ago
"I Don't Get No Respect"
Good reminder! Thanks. Just got our Costco Connection so will be sure to read the article.
Enesvy 2 years ago
"I Don't Get No Respect"
I do think the Internet and the anonymity it allows us unleashes the wild side. I recently learned that I am aquainted with a poster who comments under a screen name and I had been kinda rude to them in the comments. Needless to say, I began to rethink how free I am in my posts, especially since I am posting under my own name. But if I wasn't, the freedom to let loose like you wouldn't in public is tempting. It's a freedom we don't usually allow ourselves. . Slowly, but surely, I suppose we'll find our feet with the internet. . A very well-written observation, Joanne. :)
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