UPDATE: A new etiquette dilemma involving dinner blessings and family dynamics has emerged, igniting discussions online and prompting urgent advice from Miss Manners. As social gatherings resume, guests are grappling with how to navigate traditional customs while maintaining hygiene and respect.
DEVELOPING: Many individuals are expressing discomfort over the practice of holding hands during prayers before meals, especially after washing their hands. One reader has raised the concern that touching hands defeats the purpose of handwashing and seeks alternative solutions to avoid offending fellow guests.
Miss Manners advises a tactful approach: guests can wash their hands before the meal, participate in the prayer, and then excuse themselves under the pretense of needing to visit the restroom. This allows for a second washing without drawing attention, maintaining both etiquette and personal hygiene.
IMMEDIATE IMPACT: This advice resonates in light of ongoing health concerns, as many families are eager to uphold cleanliness while adhering to traditional practices. The discussion highlights the delicate balance between respecting customs and prioritizing health, making it a timely topic for readers navigating similar situations.
In another pressing query, a reader expressed frustration over the financial habits of her husband’s adult sons, who fail to contribute during family gatherings. Despite the couple’s long trips—covering a staggering 3,300 miles round-trip twice a year—for birthday celebrations, the sons have not offered to share costs.
Miss Manners emphasizes the need for open communication in this situation, advising the reader to discuss her feelings with her husband. The conversation could lead to solutions that enhance family dynamics and foster mutual appreciation.
CALL TO ACTION: Readers are encouraged to reflect on their own dining experiences and share their thoughts on the evolving landscape of family gatherings and etiquette. As these conversations unfold, they highlight the importance of understanding and navigating social norms in contemporary settings.
For more insights and to submit your questions, visit www.missmanners.com or reach out via email at [email protected]. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as etiquette continues to adapt in our changing world.
