Look… there is a certain etiquette that one must have while walking in public. Don’t spit on someone’s shoe, don’t go on a crop dusting spree, and, most importantly, DO NOT bump into someone without acknowledging what you’ve just done! This is probably the most unforgivable offense that you can pull off in the streets. I’m talking about the streets, not the “streets,” ok?!
When you bump into someone they immediately are thinking, “Ok, I am gonna punch you in the neck unless you say excuse me.” At least that’s what I am thinking and I’m sure I’m not the only one. Some people are not very forgiving. They might kick you in the shins or in your knee pit. There is such an easy remedy… “Excuse me!” But don’t do it sarcastically. This is even worse than not saying anything at all. Don’t say “Get out of my way, Chief” or “Watch it, Friend.” You are just picking a fight and you know it. If it is your fault, acknowledge it. Simple as that. Piece of cake. Over and done with.
One event that is always fun is the inevitable game of chicken at the mall. This is one of the reasons I hate going to the mall. In this country, people tend to walk/drive on the right side of the road. Why is the mall the only place that doesn’t apply?! You know what I’m talking about. When someone is walking directly at you, you should make a move. It should be to the right and it should be immediately. If you wait too long, you can end up in a little waltz with a stranger in the middle of a hundred people. Nothing is more embarrassing. There are some who are larger in stature that decide they are going to just keep walking. If you bump into them it’s your fault. Well, that is why you need to make the first move. Don’t see it as a sign of weakness, just do it!
The worst offenders are the ones that bump and just keep on going like nothing happened. I got bumped and ignored by this father walking his daughter out of a candy store the other day. I almost through a kiwi flavored jelly bean in his eye, but he was with his daughter. He is a lucky man. Very lucky.
Do the right thing people.
