“Life is not so short but there is always time for courtesy.”
Ralph Waldo Emerson

Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.
Romans 12:10 ESV

Life is messy. No doubt. Even in a human life seemingly charmed there must come a share of grief. My prayer has never been that God would keep me from all trouble, only that I would be given the grace and resources to carry myself well. An important part of that I think is the most courtesy I can bring to all my relationships, from those closest to me, as well as those who cross my path only briefly.

It starts with your first
please.
It continues with your first
thank you.
Let us give thanks for every parent
who sends out into the world
a loving courteous human boy
or girl.
Where do we get the idea
that putting others before us is wrong?
Do we even want to live in a world
where caring doesn’t belong?
I’ll open the door.
I’ll pay for your coffee.
I’ll look you in the eyes and really care
that your day is good…
or gets better.
Courtesy mostly doesn’t cost much,
but the lack of it always cost more.
And the gift the giver gives
comes back
pressed down and over.

© Joel Tipple 10/13/2018