Great post and reminder. I value politeness because it is often the quickest way to diffuse a tense situation. Because politeness is disappearing from society (in my opinion), I find that when I treat someone with courtesy and respect, that person is so taken aback they are ready to work with me. And selfishly, it makes me feel good to have put a smile on someone's face with a simple and genuine 'thank you.'

• Kareen