My rules for a kinder, gentler world

1. Handicap stalls in bathrooms are for people with disabilities. They were not installed so you would have more room. If you aren't handicapped you don't need to use them.

2. If you are at a public event and the national anthem is playing, take off your hat, stand up, and shut up. Self discipline is good for the soul and if that's a problem for you, the anthem only lasts a few minutes so get over it.

3. The no parking zones in front of stores were not put there for your parking convenience. Are you illiterate because you certainly aren't better than anyone else? I bet the exercise won't hurt you either.

4. If you don't want to wash your hands after you use the bathroom then don't. Pretending by waving them under the water without soap is a waste of time and water and is meaningless. Just so you know, anyone who saw you do that thinks you are gross.

5. If you do not tip the waiter, waitress, or bartender every time you order you are cheap. no exceptions.

6. If you want me to stop rolling my eyes at you then stop exaggerating.

7. If you're in the sub shop and it's your turn to place your order and you don't know what you want then don't get in line. Everyone behind you knows what they want so let's get to it. Menus at those places rarely change so what's so difficult?

8. When we are in the gym and I have my headphones on do not engage me in conversation, isn't it obvious that I cannot hear you?

9. If I ask you how you are doing please tell me how you are doing. It doesn't mean I want to know what your kids are up to or whether your significant other is an ass. I asked about you, not your family.

10. The rules for walking are like driving, stay to the right and yield the right of way. Most people understand this concept, especially those in the military and the food service industry, so follow their example. It's just common sense.

11. I am not the complaint department, complainers are real turn-offs. Take it somewhere else. On second thought, no one wants to hear it so just shut up.

12. If you are telling me about an event in your life and you mess up the little insignificant details please just keep on going. No need to go back and correct the meaningless little things that have no relevance to the story anyway. Besides, it's best you hurry up and finish before I get bored and stop listening.

13. If you interrupt me when I'm talking to you then why do you think I should listen to you when you talk?

14. Please don't try to force your food on me. It's nice that you ask me if I want some but if I say no, I really do mean it.