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By Doug Collins

One Man's Opinion

COLLINS: When things go too far

Mar 26, 2023 | 7:21 AM

I READ AN INTERESTING ARTICLE RECENTLY, in which a woman was upset when someone answered her question by saying “Yes Ma’am”.

She was very offended and suggested the person who made the comment was suggesting she was an “old lady.”

To her, it was more a slur than a mark of respect. I thought to myself “give your head a shake.” But doing a little further digging, it appears that many women feel the same.

Whether they’re not comfortable in their own bodies, I’m not sure, but it seems that being respectful is seen as a negative and not a positive.

I came across an article in the publication Psychology Today, which talks about common courtesies like respecting others by polite acts like holding the door open for others and replying to them in terms of respect.

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Many cultures have practiced these simple acts of kindness for centuries. Maybe some have come down from the days when women were seen as the “weaker” sex, nevertheless, they are said with respect and should be received as such.

I have always been taught to respect others, not just my elders, or people who struggle to get around, but everyone.

I realize I should perhaps use the term “Miss” instead of Ma’am” but for crying out loud, take the comment or the gesture for what it is, a simple act of kindness and not a slur against your age. And don’t go to Texas or Virginia, where the term “Ma’am” is so heavily used, you need noise-cancelling earbuds.

As for me, I have used “Ma’am” forever and will continue to do so. I will continue to hold doors open for people, and be polite. If you find it offensive, I apologize in advance. But I will not apologize for trying to be helpful and kind. If you’re not happy, that’s your problem, not mine. Take the actions in the spirit in which they’re given.

I’m Doug Collins and that’s One Man’s Opinion.

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Editor’s Note: This opinion piece reflects the views of its author, and does not necessarily represent the views of CFJC Today or Pattison Media.