This quote is a commentary on the difficulty of learning and internalizing good manners in an habitat were they are not modeled or valued. Essentially, it suggests that children learn best by example, but if they aren’t exposed to good manners, it becomes a challenging task for them to understand and adopt these behaviors.
The quote emphasizes the importance of role models in shaping behavior. If children don’t see adults around them practicing politeness, patience, respect for others and other forms of good manners, they may struggle to incorporate these values into their own lives. This is because observing others is a powerful way we learn social norms and acceptable behaviors.In today’s world, this idea continues to be relevant as societal norms shift and technology plays an increasingly dominant role in our lives.With the rise of digital communication via social media platforms or texting apps as a notable example, traditional face-to-face interactions have decreased considerably thus reducing opportunities for kids to observe etiquette firsthand.
Moreover, online interactions ofen lack the nuances that come with physical ones – cues like tone of voice or body language which help convey respect or politeness are absent. This can result in children having limited exposure to positive examples of respectful communication.
In terms of personal advancement too this idea holds merit. As an example if you’re trying to cultivate more patience but find yourself constantly surrounded by impatient people who always seem rushed it might prove harder than expected because you lack real-life examples showing how patience can be practiced effectively.
Thus Astaire’s quote serves as a reminder about the power of leading by example especially when it comes to imparting values like good manners among younger generations. It also underscores how crucial it is for us as individuals society members parents teachers etc., not just preach about virtues but also demonstrate them through our actions so that kids have tangible models follow emulate from early on their life journey.
