APAD: Civility costs nothing

"Civility costs nothing" is a proverb that highlights that kindness and good manners can have a significant positive impact on interactions, yet they do not require material resources or special skills. It serves as a reminder that treating others with respect is an easy but powerful way to foster positive relationships.

Origin:
The proverb is recorded in English from the early 18th century, as a common expression regarding manners and social interaction, but asimilar saying is found earlier in late 15th-century French, "courteous words…cost little and are worth much."

- From online sources with editing
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Although Google translator thinks civility means "礼貌',  I think civility is somewhat different and has deeper meaning than politeness. It, among a few other things, is the foundation of civilization.

When I first came to Canada, I noticed how civil people behaved and treated each other. After living here for most of my adult life, I have emerged to be a member of the culture.

For example, everyone here who takes buses will say "Thank You" to the bus driver when getting off the bus.  And if two people push a door at the same time, they will say "Sorry" to each other.  

Actually Canadians are using "sorry" more frequently than many other nationalities, often for minor awkwardness, spatial interruptions, or politeness, even when it is not their fault at all.  So much so that the province of Ontario introduced the Apology Act to ensure a "Sorry" is not legally considered an admission of fault (I found out this just this morning ).

But being civil doesn't mean people must always be agreeable, nor shouldn't speak their minds. Think Mark Twain, Oscar Wilde, etc. they are masters of the civilly-delivered put-down.

Enough said, wish All a good and civil Friday!