While visiting New York City last weekend, it really hit home for me that there are two types of people in this world - those that are "get out of my way" people and those that move to the side to let others pass.
I understand that dealing with New York City crowds on a daily basis probably isn't all that fun, and, to get anywhere in a timely fashion, you need to put your head down and just walk. "Move it, tourists!"
That being said, I can't help but wonder if polite people tend to move to the side to let the more aggressive people just walk right through...on sidewalks and in life, in general.
I, for one, am a self-admitted pushover. I know it. They know it. We all know it. I'd rather take the responsibility for "budging" than have a conflict about saying "no, I was walking here". I have self awareness, but, unfortunately, this trait is not possessed by everyone. I don't completely remember where I obtained said trait, but I am very thankful that I picked it up along the way.
I am, by no means, picking on New York City. This happens in every mall, on every city sidewalk, every day while behind the wheel of a car, and in every office cafeteria in America. There are people who feel entitled everywhere you turn. There are people who are so caught up in their own life, conversation, or phone to realize that someone else might actually be trying to walk by.
What happened to our manners? When did holding a door for a stranger or stepping aside to let another pass turn into a romantic gesture?
