Let's get back to paying homage to comity. Yes, we all enjoy and laugh at comedy, but the lack of comity in today's daily discourse and actions is not funny.
I've always had an interest and an infinity to read and acquire knowledge about all things British; its history, literature, and language brought me a sense of deferential appreciation for times past...when being polite and gracious were the norm, not the exception.
Comity came from the Latin word (mid-16th century), comitas, or comis meaning courteous. According to Merriam-Webster, one meaning of the noun is that of a friendly social atmosphere; of participating in an atmosphere of harmony and more importantly sharing in group activities that promote comity. Having comity is part of the entire concept of community because of the common social interactions of the citizenry...doing what is best for the good of the whole.
This past week we participated in Homecoming week. Everyone was obliged to come together for a common purpose with not only politeness, good manners, but comity. We were respectful of each other, knowing that being considerate was part of cementing memories of an uplifting and fun time.
Unfortunately, having good manners is difficult for adults in the political world to understand. There seems to be a dearth of comity. Instead, there is name-calling, unfair labeling, and a destructive acceptance of lies that tear down as oppose to lifting up. It often feels like childish meanness just for the sake of being mean.
This is where I don't apologize for being 'old-school'---I long for even just the remnants of chivalry to still exist; a code of conduct and behavior where being courteous to those around us was a given...where graciousness and honorable actions ruled the day...where respect and even gentility were embedded in people's conversations instead of this present day disregard and crudeness.
I appreciated, as a school, the comity of the occasion last week. At the very least it can serve as a reminder of the thoughtfulness and generosity of spirit which can be an example for others...at the very most it reflects the value of civility among young people, thank goodness... chivalry is not entirely dead.