The editorial that appeared on October 28 opened a discussion on manners. It was a timely warning. It was both instructional and educational. What was more, it aimed at stimulating a debate; hence my contribution.

I recall my courting days. My fiancée would have been offended if I did not keep her on the inside while walking on the pavement. This was not a laughing manner. It meant protection and security, the ideals of respect.

During my teaching career I was a stickler for manners. If a pupil raised his hand to leave the room I expected him to say “please” and “Sir” and to say “thank you” on returning to the classroom. The words did not imply inferiority or servility but respect for authority.

I was so indoctrinated at school that when my headmaster and I became friends, I still continued to address him as “Sir”.

School education should include a code of ethics that is not necessarily written down in the curriculum. The teachers’ role is a professional one but also a mission.

Their influence should enhance the national ethos. It should spread to public behaviour.

The buses on the Mellieħa route have four seats reserved for senior citizens. Written instructions warn the younger commuters to give up their seats. Unfortunately, they hardly ever do what is expected of them. They do not even show respect to a pregnant woman. Ironically, older people do.

These instances of respectful behaviour are not frivolities. They mean that education in school should be reinforced by parental upbringing, a symbiotic tandem that must be fulfilled nowadays.