2006-08-31 00:16:53 · 40 answers · asked by Anonymous in Society & Culture ➔ Etiquette
If he's nice to you then yeah, if he's being rude to you, like the old b*stards round my way are then stand your ground. Just because he fought in the WW2 doesn't mean the world owes him something and he has no right to speak to anyone with less respect than he expects to be himself.
OAP's get right on my t*ts. They say we are rude but they should take a look at themselves.
Don't te me started...
2006-08-31 00:21:14 · answer #1 · answered by Mum-Ra 5 · 1⤊ 2⤋
A veteran's cantankerousness may be brought on from his inability to enjoy freedom of movement as he once did. There are many variables in the mix that could include a soured personality as well.
Many posters say to give the veteran respect and I agree, but if the man cannot recognize an honorable attempt in giving respect then I suggest either walk away or brave the consequences and try to uncover his real problem. That is a call that can only be decided by the individual.
2006-08-31 05:24:20 · answer #2 · answered by Guitarpicker 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
ABSOLUTELY!!! If you do nothing else in your life right, don't screw this up. Because of that "cantankerous old dinosaur on crutches" you have your freedom and your way of life. You should thank him for that!
Besides the fact that he is a WW2 veteran, he is your elder, he is human, he has feelings, and he should be treated with respect. You should always treat others the way that you would like to be treated.
2006-08-31 07:01:32 · answer #3 · answered by brown_iyed_grrl 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Why not take a step back and try and understand why he is so cantankerous, one day you will be like him. This person put his life at stake during the war so that we can live reasonably safe to day. Have you ever asked him what he done in the war, or just sat and talked to him, I'm sure he would appreciate that and you then would have a better understanding, would you like somebody to call your parents or family member a cantankerous dinosaour on crutches? I for one would not like it. Show him some compassion and try and get on with him, it is not to much to ask.
2006-08-31 06:47:12 · answer #4 · answered by kh120159 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
At least be respectful and try to think about the atrocities he's probably seen during that time. All veterans deserve our respect. My Grandfather was in WW2 and he never talked about it. One time, when I was a child I saw him without his shirt on and on his abdomen were scars that looked like a spider web. I asked my Dad about it and he told me that Grandpa was injured during the war and to not ask him about it. Grandpa also saw friends and fellow soldiers killed and blown to bits. He was also a bit cantankerous but at least then I understood why.
2006-08-31 02:37:32 · answer #5 · answered by Mollywobbles 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Depends how well you know him. Respect him for his involvement in the war, then be typical and courteous around him.
Maybe he doesn't want you to be 'nice' to him. Often people confuse well meaning and patronising with nice. Maybe he finds you patronising. I think respectful is better than nice, try that.
If he really annoys you, try not to spend too much time with him and if he goes out of his way to wind you up, try to let it wash off. He's an aging man who survived a war, at the very least he should be allowed his dignity.
Don't forget yours though!
2006-08-31 01:42:30 · answer #6 · answered by Derek K 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I don`t ever bear in mind WW2 Veterans & Korea Veterans disrespecting the Vietnam conflict Veterans . The conflict became misunderstood back than and it nevertheless is even immediately they in ordinary words element i am going to blame disrespect on is the click Civilians authorities Politicians and the Congress guy .
2016-12-06 00:55:53 · answer #7 · answered by ? 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Be as nice as you can be. But if he is being deliberately rude then don't bend over backwards to do so. However, do explain to him that we are all greateful for the effort of the WW2 soldiers but it doesn't give him the right to be a rude old so and so.
2006-08-31 02:13:55 · answer #8 · answered by StolenAnjel 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Freedom isn't free, it comes with a price and I'm sure he paid his dues. Try and give the old guy a break. I've dealt with men just like him for the past 11yrs most of em ain't half bad once you get to know them. Most just want a little respect.
2006-08-31 19:38:27 · answer #9 · answered by psykobarbi 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Because it was he and others who fought for the freedom which has allowed you to ask such an insensitive question.
Perhaps you should talk to him and find out why he is the way he is. You may learn something.
I have to say that at least you seem concerned unlike some who have answered your question.
2006-09-01 13:50:27 · answer #10 · answered by Spanner 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋