Article August 31, 1981 Issue

An interview: with a ten-year-old boy on politeness

Edward K. Jones with contributions from David

A surprise picnic was given for a couple who for many years had generously given of themselves to their community. Many friends and townspeople stood and spoke of the kind things these two had done. Among them was David, their ten-year-old grandson and an active member of a Christian Science Sunday School in one of Canada's Prairie Provinces. This interview with Edward K. Jones came about because of what David said.

David, many who attended your grandparents' picnic were deeply touched when you said, "The thing I love the most about them is their politeness." What does politeness mean to you?

Being polite is having good manners—not just table manners, but acting right, no matter what. It's one of the most important things in the world. I think the nicest people are those who are polite.

Send a comment to the editors