The Silent Decline of Basic Manners
We're losing the little things that hold respect and connection together. Here's why acknowledging someone matters more than ever—and how we can bring it back. It’s a small gesture—one that takes just a second—but it means everything. A simple “hello,” a nod, or even eye contact when someone enters a room. Yet increasingly, both kids and adults seem to skip this basic act of acknowledgment. And it’s hard not to ask: where did good manners go? We live in a time of increasing disconnection. Despite being constantly plugged into devices, we’ve become more unplugged from one another. Social greetings—those small, everyday rituals like saying “good morning” or acknowledging someone’s presence—aren’t just polite formalities. They’re foundational acts of respect. They say, I see you. You matter. What Happened to “Hello”? There are a few reasons this social breakdown is happening. First, socialization at home has shifted. Kids typically learn manners by watching adults. If they grow ...