“Of course.” A new Old Coot issue.
By Merlin Lessler
I say, “You’re welcome,” whenever someone says, “Thank you.”
It’s been like this in society for decades, maybe even centuries. I’m not sure about
centuries; I’m still only in my first one.
About 25 years ago, people started responding with, “No
problem.” It started with the younger crowd. Apparently, we weren’t necessarily
welcome to what they did for us, for what we thanked them for. They were
telling us they did it because it wasn’t a problem.” It got us old timers wondering
what would have happened if it was a big, or even a little, problem? Anyhow, 25
years ago that “Thank you” came into being.
Now, a new one is working its way into society. When you
say, “Thank you,” you get, “Of course,” in reply. It’s nice to hear, but it’s
almost too much. It’s sort of saying, “Look bub; I get paid to do this, plus,
you tipped me so, “Of course,” is my response when you thank me.
The big question I always have when a transformational
change in everyday etiquette like this takes place, is who started it? And, how
did it work its way through the population so fast?” I still haven’t decided
how I feel about, “Of course.” It’s becoming so common it’s losing its sparkle.
Sort of like how, “Have a good day” has become rote*. I’d love to come up with
a clever response to, “Of course.” Or, something to replace it. But, nothing
has emerged from the mush in my skull. Maybe you can do it. In the meantime, I’m
sticking with, “You’re welcome.”
* repeating something through mechanical habit.
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