Southern Charm: A Guide to Lovely USA Southern Manners

Living in the Deep South for a decade has afforded me the insight to appreciate the nuances of Southern manners. This guide will explore some of the essential and delightful aspects of the Southern lifestyle that are both welcoming and respectful.

Polite Referrals and Respectful Address

The South is known for its courteous and respectful behaviors. One common practice is addressing strangers with titles such as sir or ma’am. Even if you don’t know if a person is older, using a title out of respect is the norm. For example, if I dropped a receipt at a Pizza Hut and my hands were full, a fellow patron would kindly help and say ”You’re welcome, sir.”

Waving and Friendly Gestures

Southerners often wave to passersby, especially in smaller towns with less traffic. This gesture is a small but meaningful way to greet people. However, in densely populated or busy areas, it’s best to limit the waving to brief encounters. This simple act can turn a passing stranger into a friendly acquaintance.

Offering Refreshments to Guests

In many Southern households, it’s customary to offer coffee or tea to guests. Even if the visit is just for a short time, it’s polite to inquire about their preferences. This traditional hospitality is rooted in the belief that guests are a blessing and should be made to feel welcome.

The Deep South's Unique Kinship

A curious aspect of Southern culture is the emphasis on familial ties, which can extend beyond traditional blood relations. Being called Uncle by a non-relative, for instance, is common among Cajuns. This practice reflects the deep-seated bonds of friendship and community. As the saying goes, ”The blood of the covenant is thicker than the water of the womb.”

Polite Manners and Humor

Manners in the South often blend with a bit of humor and politeness. Saying things like ”Miss, may I sit” to request a seat on a public bench is a polite way to make a stranger feel at ease. Gentlemen might go the extra mile with an unexpected speech, such as:
”May I be the thorn between you lovely roses”, or exaggerated compliments, like comments on someone's hair being so pretty they could faint!

Overall, these manners and behaviors are more than just formalities; they are the fabric of what makes the South so welcoming and friendly.