At the risk of coming across as an old reactionary, out of touch with modernity, I would like to defend a space of civility that must be preserved: one where decency takes precedence over rights.
How often do we hear people today claiming their right to do, to have, to not do — when the minimum of decency would simply require them to keep quiet, accept what is offered, or say thank you?
In an increasingly egocentric world, the indecency of rights has become a common reflex — even at the highest levels: political, economic, intellectual. Decency, however, does not invite us to take advantage of our rights, but to display a certain magnanimity. Certain examples, however, should speak to most of us — at least, that is our hope:
• The business class passenger who, instead of discreetly enjoying the lounge, sprawls out, raids the buffet, downs four coffees in thirty minutes, and slips forty chocolates into their bag — as if it were a mission.
• The well-paid employee who, during an internal discount shopping campaign, demands priority — when he or she could easily buy these items on the open market.
• The person who hates opera but accepts tickets — knowing that a colleague who loves opera has not been lucky enough to get any.
• The person who occupies a company parking space when they only come in once or twice a week — while a colleague who is there every day desperately needs one.
• The person who chooses the buffet not to eat, but to ‘raid’ it — leaving half their plate uneaten, knowing that they are depriving others.
• These situations may seem trivial, almost benign. Yet they reveal a lack of education, of good manners… and sometimes, boundless indecency.
One might object: ‘They have the right, like everyone else.’ Certainly. But decency invites us to ask ourselves three simple questions: Do I really need this? By my attitude, am I not depriving someone who needs it more? Am I, ultimately, better off for this gesture? To ask the question is to answer it.
An adage says: “A bad settlement is better than a good trial. ” In our view, this maxim remains relevant today — even if the plethora of solicitors around us are quick to dispute it… forgetting, in passing, that it is their livelihood.
Being part of society also means putting others before yourself. This may seem outdated, even absurd, to many. But my experiences — both personal and professional — have taught me otherwise:
Making others happy with small gestures, putting others first — even when you are the main contributor, not abusing the system, but using it with restraint… … is infinitely more rewarding.
But you still need to have an ego capable of accepting this idea. Relying solely on the law? That’s not a good thing.
You must know how to deal with the other subtleties of human consciousness. The law should only be a response when all other options have failed. Is that still possible? Yes. But it takes a little courage. And above all… a little decency.
To your good right — enjoy reading and see you soon.