I Believe in Saying

At my first lacrosse practice of our fall ball team, the coach had us practice receiving a pass from behind the goal and running in front to shoot. I am the goalkeeper, so the coach taught me individually how to block shots of that manner, spewing out instructions at lightning speeds. Fighting to hear and comprehend his instructions under my helmet, I muttered quickly, “Yes sir, Yes sir, Yes sir,” trying to keep up with his pace so that he knew I was paying attention.

“Keep close to the post”

-“Yes sir”

“Wait until the shooter enters the 8 meter arc, then take a huge step out and match the girl’s stick”

-“Yes sir”

“That will be really intimidating for the shooter”

-“Yes sir”

“Don’t call me sir”

-“Yes sir… Oh, uh, it’s a habit.”

My reaction to the coach’s last statement was certainly done under less than ideal circumstances. I was nervous because I had never been instructed by him before, and he is one of the best lacrosse coaches in the state. I was straining to hear what he was saying, to the point where I had to respond, then a half-second later process what was said. My response embarrassed me because I was afraid he would think I wasn’t paying attention. Taking all this into consideration, my answer was at best partially accurate.

I say “yes sir” or “yes ma’am” to every adult I speak to. I have always been required to do so by my parents, and when I was younger it was strictly a habitual answer. When I grew older, adults began to tell me that the phrase was not necessary. However, although the phrase is still automatic, and my automatic response is still “it’s a habit,” I say it out of respect.

Respect is such an important part of communication, and without it, not much can be accomplished. Every person, no matter what they’ve done or how they act, is deserving of respect. I have the utmost respect for all of my superiors, all my elders, my teachers, parents, friends’ parents, everybody I come into contact with. It is a genuine feeling, and it is shown by simply saying “yes sir” or “yes ma’am.” In return, they show me respect, allowing me to have a decent relationship with every adult I know. All it takes is “yes sir” or “yes ma’am;” those two little words that say so much. Their recipient not only appreciates it, but they give it back to you. Respect begets respect.

Saying “yes sir” or “yes ma’am” may seem a little formal, but in effect it can lighten the conversation. Any possible tension, any defensive or argumentative pretext is dissolved when you show respect to other people. It allows for open communication, cooperation, and returned respect. Respect can take you far in life- “yes sir” can take you far in life.

I believe “yes sir” and “yes ma’am” are the two most important phrases in the English language.