{yes, ma'am}
Sometimes the reminders that we have left the Midwest still surprise me.
You'd think I would be completely adjusted to the little quirks of our new culture. I've gotten used to the y'all' s and the 'preciate ya 's. I've gotten used to "bless her heart" (... after catching on that sometimes it is said in a gossipy or slightly mean-spirited way, as in "Did you see Jenny's kids at the park? They were just awful! Bless her heart, she's got her hands full with those boys!")
I know that here grocery carts are called "buggies" and car seats are called "pumpkin seats." The Lord's name is absolutely never taken in vain and grown men say "gosh." (In fact, Ben just shared a story with me about a business meeting that was almost ended abruptly because someone swore.)Football is an integral part of life here. Maryville is not pronounced at all like it looks. (Murrrrr- vullll, in case you were curious.)
I could go on and on. These differences are very small and pretty unimportant, but interesting to me nonetheless.
I found it especially interesting yesterday to learn from Gracie that she is expected to address her teacher as "ma'am." I asked her to help me with something and she said, "yes, ma'am" without a hint of joking. She then looked a little embarrassed and said, " I forgot I don't have to say that to you." Evidently, from day one, her teachers asked the class to answer every question or request with "yes, ma'am" or "no, ma'am."
I don't think I've ever addressed someone in this way. I definitely do not have a problem with it and like that the teachers are asking for respect from the students, but it is just different.
You'd think I would be completely adjusted to the little quirks of our new culture. I've gotten used to the y'all' s and the 'preciate ya 's. I've gotten used to "bless her heart" (... after catching on that sometimes it is said in a gossipy or slightly mean-spirited way, as in "Did you see Jenny's kids at the park? They were just awful! Bless her heart, she's got her hands full with those boys!")
I know that here grocery carts are called "buggies" and car seats are called "pumpkin seats." The Lord's name is absolutely never taken in vain and grown men say "gosh." (In fact, Ben just shared a story with me about a business meeting that was almost ended abruptly because someone swore.)Football is an integral part of life here. Maryville is not pronounced at all like it looks. (Murrrrr- vullll, in case you were curious.)
I could go on and on. These differences are very small and pretty unimportant, but interesting to me nonetheless.
I found it especially interesting yesterday to learn from Gracie that she is expected to address her teacher as "ma'am." I asked her to help me with something and she said, "yes, ma'am" without a hint of joking. She then looked a little embarrassed and said, " I forgot I don't have to say that to you." Evidently, from day one, her teachers asked the class to answer every question or request with "yes, ma'am" or "no, ma'am."
I don't think I've ever addressed someone in this way. I definitely do not have a problem with it and like that the teachers are asking for respect from the students, but it is just different.
Comments
"No ma'am" is still a very popular phrase, too...but in a somewhat sarcastic way. Like, if you're saying something out of line, or doing something wrong, it's "Uhh, no ma'am!"
"Bless her heart" is definitely used in a more derogatory sense than a nice way. I agree with you on that one.
Growing up, I was always taught to refer to my elders as "sir" or Ma'am", but that practice was not common to everybody my age. Today, it seems more common from the 20 and 30 year olds then it was when I was in my 20's and 30's. The show of respect is always welcomed.
It is a good habit for our children to learn and I hope they hang onto that bit of southern wisdom/charm.
Love Dad
P.S. In case you have the thought that the "sir" is more in reference to my age then a show of courtesy, I say to you...well are'nt you sweet, bless your heart.