I'm 81, have only one working ear (with hearing aid) and it's time for my cataract surgery. I have also had hip surgery, and maybe I hobble just a little bit. Last week I was in the eye clinic waiting room with my wife, who heard my first name "Fred" called out - - unfortunately I didn't hear it at all. I remarked something to my wife about this new custom of calling us old geezers by our first name. She said "why don't you tell her?" As I followed the young lady, I said "Some of us old folks don't like being called by our first names." The young chick replied "Then I can tell everyone to call you Mr. **** (not my correct name)." I corrected her on that, and we went on to the testing procedures. I spent about an hour with her going through the tests and giving my medical history. Actually she was cordial enough and all went well. My wife noticed that she had put a Post-it note on my file: "Call this man Mr. ####" (my correct last name).
Lately, though, I have noticed that many younger people are now holding doors for me. I always thank them, but have to admit it's kinda embarrassing.
It is a sign of respect sir and I for one am glad you are experiencing it..You have earned it.There are a number of us that know had we not opened the door for our elders and women a lighting bold from on high compliments of our southern grandmothers would strike us down where we stood.Take care my FRiend.
I was in the eye clinic waiting room with my wife, who heard my first name "Fred" called out - - unfortunately I didn't hear it at all. I remarked something to my wife about this new custom of calling us old geezers by our first nameI am from the South and have noticed this "custom" among staff at doctors' offices. Your post reminds me of something I have been intending to do: notify the front office and have them understand that I am 70 years old and do not appreciate being addressed by the familiar "Joe"; this person should give me a little respect and address me as "Mr. ----."
On a side note, when I was a youngster it never occurred to me to address any adult by his or her first name. And that included all relatives. It just wasn't done.