Courtesy Week was over and done—we knew the ins and outs of formal dining, carrying on conversations, and being a respectful guest and/or host.  As Sabbath came and we heard our last courtesy worship talk, we breathed a sigh of relief, feeling confident that we could now handle any social situation thrown our way.

It was beautiful—but what did we hope to accomplish?  We are told that “Christian politeness should be cultivated, and daily put in practice” (RC 306.4).  Those little courteous deeds must start somewhere, and we hoped in the Courtesy Banquet to jumpstart that cultivation process.

“Usually when you’re at a banquet you’re concerned about how you look, or you’re enjoying your own time,” says Izhar Buendia, a recent media graduate-turned staff member.  “But for me, it was concern for how was my escort, it was really emphasized to care for the other person.  I mean, I think of Jesus, when He was dining with the sinners and publicans; it must have been really awkward, but He made them feel comfortable.”  Ruthie Mills, another college student who exuded intense enthusiasm for the banquet, echoed the same sentiment: “I think that when we learn courtesy, it makes us much more comfortable in life.”

The banquet went well, and it even seems that no one made any serious etiquette blunders; the week of learning has paid off!  We hope that the spirit our courtesy will pervade our lives in the many years that come, and that we can continue cultivating the little kindnesses that make life pleasant.