Is it really that rude to not have my napkin on my lap while I'm eating? ?

Question

When I'm eating, whether I'm at home, at someone's house, or at a restaurant, I like to just keep my napkin on the table next to my plate, it's just easier for me that way. But my one aunt keeps either yelling at me to put my napkin on my lap or she'll put it on my lap for me even though I'm 33 years old and it's my choice whether I want to or not. When I had a talk with her about it she just said it's because etiquette says to do so and we're supposed to, but I don't think she realizes that just because etiquette or anyone says to do so doesn't mean it's not my choice. How I live my life is up to me and if I don't always want to do things by the book, so what! I don't know how it's that rude to not have your napkin on your lap.

? · Accepted Answer

i dont think so

Jon · Answer

You may not realize it, but you're talking about four different issues here, so let's take them all one at a time. (1) Is what you're doing "rude"? Yes. It's against the etiquette of the local culture, and that's what the word "rude" means. If you were dining somewhere else, what you're doing might not be rude. (2) Is what you're doing "bad"? That's a matter of opinion. Certainly it's not the worst thing in the word, but there is something to be said for keeping your spit-soiled napkin out of sight of others. (3) Is what you're doing your choice? Of course it is, but that has no bearing on whether it's rude or not, or bad or not. (4) Is what you're doing your aunt's business? No, but that doesn't mean she's wrong.

Rach · Answer

If you're at her house, I probably would do it. As she might not want crumbs on the floor.
If it's outside of her house, then it's your choice. However to keep the peace - I think there's no harm just doing it whenever she's there. Annoying, but life is short. It's better not to get into an argument over it.

Anonymous · Answer

Grow some balls and tell her to mind her own business.

Is it really that rude to not have my napkin on my lap while I'm eating? ?

Trending Questions