Rocky Point, Mexico: A Courteous City
Mexico, as a whole, is known as a courteous country and the residents of Rocky Point are possibly more courteous than most. I don’t know if it’s because they deal with foreigners more – us getting lost and needing directions or help with this or that – or if it’s just part of their laid back lifestyle in this once small fishing village. Whichever it is, it’s a something we should all take back home with us – being courteous. Nothing drives me more insane than rude people and nothing spoils my day more than rudeness. I come across it so often when I am in the U.S., I just wish everyone could spend at least a week here in Rocky Point and take a lesson from the natives. It is one thing I truly love about living in Mexico (the other is being responsible for yourself and your actions, but that’s a whole other article).
No matter how bad your day was or is you can always count on a courteous greeting from those you come in contact with. You don’t have to know the person to speak one of three common courtesies: Buenos Dias, Buenas Tardes and Buenas Noches. It makes you feel good just to say them out loud and get a greeting in response. Try it. You know I’m right. And it’s just good manners to greet people you come in contact with, make transactions with or simply pass on the streets of Rocky Point. I am sure you have heard one, if not all three of these simple greetings. How and when to use them is very simple as well:
- Buenos Dias (Good Morning) – used in the morning hours up until 11:59 AM
- Buenas Tardes (Good Afternoon/Early Evening) – used from 12:00 PM until approx. 8:00 PM
- Buenas Noches (Good Evening) – used from 8:00 PM on
Sometimes the “Buenas Tardes” and “Buenas Noches” get mixed up, or you say them too early or too late – not to worry – you will hear the proper way on your returned gesture and you will remember for next time. If you are unsure and don’t want to pin yourself in a corner, a simple “Buenas” will suffice, though try to use the proper greeting – it just sounds better.
In all my years here I cannot remember one instance where I have proffered a greeting and it was not returned. It’s part of the culture. It makes you instant friends in a sort of way and is an instant opener if you want to start a conversation or ask someone a question. Next time you’re out shopping in your hometown or eating out or mingling with the public try saying a “Good Morning”, “Good Afternoon” or “Good Evening” to those you pass and see how many are returned.
