Miss Manners: Strangers want to take our photo, and they're bugged when I say no
Briefly

When taking photos together in public, a couple often faces unsolicited offers for help from strangers. Despite polite refusals, these interactions can lead to discomfort and lingering negative feelings. Suggesting alternative responses can mitigate these situations, such as expressing the activity as a personal tradition or trend. In another scenario, waiting in line at a store reveals social dynamics, where individual conversations disrupt the expected silence maintained by others. It's important to recognize that not everyone seeks interaction, and social cues should be respected.
A clever alternative to consider when responding to unwanted offers of help might be: 'Thank you so much, but it's just a thing we do,' accompanied by a self-deprecating laugh that indicates to onlookers that you find your activity amusing. This approach often encourages people to respect your boundaries more easily.
In social situations, the premise of approaching others with well-meaning intentions must be balanced with an understanding of personal preferences. Not everyone desires external assistance, and this should be acknowledged with grace.
Read at www.mercurynews.com
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