Add “dude” to the list of things I don’t like to be called, right behind “sir” and “mister.”
The first time I noticed, I was in the locker room at the YMCA. Two men in their 20s came in and were planning on swimming. They couldn’t complete a sentence without using "dude" or "bro." They were nice, asking me about the YM and the pool. They were in the locker room again after my workout and we resumed talking. On my way out, one of them held up what looked like a nice ripe banana. “Do you want a banana dude,”? he asked. “They are good for you after you work out.”
I declined and walked out. For some reason, I didn’t like him calling me “dude.” A few days later a co-worker in his 20s called me “dude” after I asked him about an upcoming assignment. Again, it bothered me.
I’ve always hated sir and mister because they are too formal for me. As far as I’m concerned, everyone from 2 to 92 can call me "Ralph." In fact, I would prefer it.
I used to like when people called me “dude” because it is something young people say to each other. I hope this mood passes.
Let me know what you think.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
.jpg)
7 comments:
How about "Sport" can we call you "Sport?"
You look young enough to be called dude. Consider it a compliment, sir. Happy St. Pat's day!
I completely understand. I hate being called ma'am. I actually get elated at the rare times when I am called miss.
"Sport" sounds kind of condescending. But it depends on the tone and the circumstances.
Good point about me looking young enough to be called "dude." I agree. I'll be celebrating my 40th birthday this year and many people think I look a lot younger.
A couple of people in their 20s pointed out to me that in service jobs, you have to call men and women sir or ma'am or you could lose your job. I agree.
Elizabeth illustrates what I've experienced. I call a woman between 35 and 45 ma'am to be polite and they glare at me. From now on I'll use miss although I think miss should be reserved for younger women.
I wonder how Elizabeth feels about "missy"?
How about "Sparky"?. No...
And you'll be turning 40 this year? Going backwards are we?
What I don't like even worse than that, is when someone calls me dude, at least ette to the end. And i really don't like ma'am. I once told a waiter that if he called me ma'am one more time he wouldn't be getting a tip. For the rest of the night it was Debbie.
Dave,
I am not going backwards. I am celebrating my 4Oth birthday for the seventh time.
Debbie
No fair threatening a waiter who is just trying to be respectful and polite.
Post a Comment