My wife and I walk most days. Our usual route is popular, so we often share the sidewalk with other people.
Because we walk fast, we frequently overtake people from behind. Some people stay to the right so that we can pass — good. Others need to be reminded (‘on your left!’) — okay. Some people take up the whole sidewalk and seem completely unaware that they are sharing the sidewalk with others — not good.
More annoying are the people who take up more than half the sidewalk as you approach them head on. Some don’t acknowledge our presence. It’s like we don’t exist. Oblivious and self-involved! Other people seem to be playing chicken, expecting us to move off the sidewalk. Talk about entitled!
Usually, we move over like the (mostly) polite people we are (our mothers taught us well). Sometimes, however, we hold our ground and force the oncoming offenders to shift at the last minute. Occasionally there is even a small collision — reminds me that I played tackle in high school football.
Who are the worst offenders? Teenagers and young adults: yes, but not only them. Tourists (we live in a tourist town): yes, but not only them. We usually cut some slack for kids, but what about the examples being set by their oblivious and inconsiderate parents?
This rant about sidewalk etiquette is clearly a small annoyance. Should I just let it go? What do you think?
I’d just let it go . I find that there SO many areas of lacking social etiquette that you just can’t correct them all ! Things like holding a door for someone, giving up your seat to an elderly or encumbered person , or removing your hat at a dinner table , and even good old , Please and Thank You’s . I find that the larger the cities , the more disinterested the people are . I guess because they’re not likely to run into them again , whereas in a smaller community people tend to be more polite and more affable .
This is me letting it go…
How about those who stare at their phones while also trying to use a busy sidewalk!… Grr
That’s definitely a pet peeve of mine too Caity, and it’s a dangerous habit 👎👎
That would be under the broader topic of phone etiquette. There’s much more to say about that!
I share your frustration, Bill, but as others have said, the overall lack of social etiquette these days is so pervasive that it’s probably best to let it go – if only to preserve your mental health. I for one am glad my parents taught me manners, which I then passed along to my own children.
I like the idea of preserving my mental health. Good objective.