In a spirited rebuttal to a recent opinion piece, numerous readers have voiced their support for the simple act of saying "thank you," particularly towards those in the service industry. This debate was sparked by Sangeeta Pillai's article, which called for a ban on what she termed a "pointless stream of politeness" among Britons. However, correspondents from Dublin to Geneva have passionately defended the phrase as a meaningful gesture of appreciation.
The Case for Gratitude in Everyday Interactions
Deirdre Breen from Dublin, Ireland, strongly disagrees with Pillai's stance. She emphasizes that thanking baristas, shop assistants, bus drivers, and other service workers is not overworked or meaningless. Instead, it acknowledges their hard work and the often challenging nature of their jobs, which are typically low-paid. Breen argues that in these "febrile times," marked by hardship and negativity, kindness and appreciation through a simple "thank you" are more important than ever.
Beyond Words: 'Thank You' as a Recognition of Humanity
Lotte Lina Kaiser from Geneva, Switzerland, expresses sadness over the critique, explaining that "thank you" often serves as a way to say "I see you." It recognizes the person behind the service, such as a bus driver who faces early mornings and harsh weather conditions. Kaiser believes these small acknowledgments matter deeply, reinforcing that individuals are not invisible in their daily roles.
Balancing Politeness in a Civilised Society
Roger Mortimore from Dorking, Surrey, offers a nuanced perspective. While he might agree with some of Pillai's points about excessive politeness, he maintains that showing appreciation and gratitude is necessary in a civilised society. He notes that it's pleasant to be thanked, especially when one's name is used, but cautions against overdoing it. Mortimore shares an anecdote from New York where a shop assistant's effusive thanks felt excessive, yet he contrasts this with his experience in France, where "merci" is generously used without over-apologizing.
Humorous Observations on Modern Etiquette
Other readers added lighter touches to the discussion. Stephen Blakemore from Folkestone, Kent, enjoyed Pillai's piece but pointed out that a simple "thank you" has evolved into "thank you so much" in contemporary usage. Meanwhile, Stephanie Bailey from Norton-sub-Hamdon, Somerset, humorously noted that people in the UK say "sorry" far more often than "thank you," suggesting that gratitude might be underrated compared to apologies.
This collection of letters highlights a broader societal conversation about the value of politeness. Readers argue that "thank you" is not just a phrase but a crucial element of social cohesion, offering respect and visibility to those in the service sector. As debates over etiquette continue, these perspectives remind us of the power of small gestures in fostering a kinder, more connected community.
