In response to my column last week, I received an e-mail questioning whether the decline of common decency is actually as bad as was suggested. The author wrote of a measurable improvement in customer service.While I appreciate his remarks, the point must be made that the column did not specifically target poor customer service, which is undeniably symptomatic of the greater malaise which, I contend, is afflicting our society.
Occasionally, letters to the editor offer "Kuddoos" for courteous treatment lavished on members of the public whether at the hospital or at the hands of the police service. Praise, where deserved, is always a good thing. Why do these public recognitions often seem nuanced with pleasant surprise? That is perhaps because to be on the receiving end of politeness and genuine sympathy is such a unique sensation it inspires the recipient to put pen to paper or fingers to keyboard.
When I was producing television shows, each year would begin with the arduous preparation of sponsorship documents, painstakingly written and addressed to countless private enterprises. More than 80 per cent of these letters, replete with all manner of contact information, are ignored. Fair enough; I resolved to sit down with the list of candidates for sponsorship and telephone each and every one of them.
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