finally, some civility

Yesterday, at some point during my interview marathon, the issue of civility was mentioned.  In context, incivility was identified as a behavior for which one of our smart candidates had a low tolerance.  (Preach it.)

I wrote about (in)civility almost a year ago.  And I promised to seek out stories of civility to share.

I've thought about that a lot over the last year, actually.  It's been convicting, frankly, to not follow up on that, and disappointing, that those stories haven't been so easy to see.

Well.  Glory to God, I have one for you!

On a business trip today, I was touring a football stadium that is under construction.  There's nothing quite like throwing on a hard hat and fluorescent vest in a suit and heels (closed-toed, of course).

I digress.

One of the gentlemen hosting us was, very likely, one of the kindest and well, most gentle men I've ever professionally encountered.  As we walked under ladders and stepped over piles of hardware, he was attentive to the ladies in our group, and careful to guide us safely through a potentially dangerous area (speaking from personal experience, unfortunately).

That's civility, folks.  But not the point of my story.

As we were leaving one level, a construction worker called to us, "Excuse me, sir!"  (Mr. Gentleman stopped and turned.)  "I just wanted to say thanks for saying hello to us, for speaking to us.  Most men in ties don't do that.  We appreciate your acknowledging the work we're doing here."

Mr. Gentleman responds, "Listen, you guys are doing the hard work.  We know it, and just because we're in ties doesn't mean we're too good to say it."

Honestly.  Could the civility be any more abounding?

There are great folks out there, who are attentive to others, and not just to the people who are dressed like them.

There are people who understand that acknowledging the work of others who aren't in your immediate circle, can make their day sometimes.

There are those who -- perhaps even unknowingly -- are practicing civility, somehow knowing that their words and actions impact others.  For good.

Practice civility, friends.  The world is better for it.