What is it with people any more? I just read over at Carl Galloway’s blog about the increasing problem with people leaving their dog’s feces on public sidewalks and greenways in Ronda, Spain. ICK! I hope they fine every one of the inconsiderate doofuses that 500 EU! They deserve it!

I have dogs and walk them in such places, but NEVER would I consider leaving behind their poo for someone to inadvertently step in! That’s just so inconsiderate! It’s no big deal to carry a plastic bag or two with you to pick up after your dog. It’s real easy to turn it inside out over your hand, pick up the pile all nice and sterile and then pull the bag back right side out, tie the top and chuck it in the waste bin. Keeps the smell down, too.

And this also brings up other rude behaviors I’ve noticed of late.

Public restrooms — people, it’s a place we all should be able to go into without finding toilet paper on the floor, toilets left unflushed and water all over the counter around the sink. No one is in such a hurry that they cannot take 30 seconds to wait for the toilet to finish flushing to make sure it all went down with the first flush. Water pressure varies in places, and sometimes despite low volume of paper or stool in the bowl it takes more than one flush to get it down. Oh — and if you’re one of those who squats over the seat, please “if you sprinkle when you tinkle, please be neat and wipe the seat” as my Mama taught me!

Water left pooling on the counters around the sink is another pet peeve of mine. I don’t particularly care to lean up against that counter and come away with a wet shirt. Being short, I’m not often given the option of holding myself away from the counter as I wash my hands, so when you’re through drying your hands on your paper towels, use them to mop up the sink area. Just as a consideration for those following after you.

It seems like people act like pieces of tv furniture — stuck in a corner with real life going on somewhere over their heads on a big screen. Wake up people! You are not islands in a sea of humanity! We are all citizens of the world; let’s try to make it a better place starting with those places we all congregate. I’m not saying you have to be Sterile Sue, but just have some consideration for the next person who comes along. Remember the Golden Rule (that would be “do unto others as you would have them do unto you” — just in case you forgot or were never taught it)?

If you’re grossed out by these things (and if you’re one who isn’t then I hope our paths never cross!), then don’t perpetuate the problem by ignoring common courtesy.

Thank you and good night!

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