Dear Elders, Do you enjoy being called “sir” or “ma’am?” Why?
Signed,
The Ole Crab
Casper Kranenburg
Dear Crab:
It depends in which bar I am.
Roioli Schweiker
Dear Ole Crab:
Yes, I liked being called ma’am. Even more than being whistled at. It made me feel like a real lady when I walked down the street and even the construction workers tipped their hard hats to me.
My husband really objected to being called by his first name at the doctor’s office. He greatly appreciated the doctor who called him “professor.”
Jan Stickler
Dear “The Ole Crab,” (sounds like a restaurant that I went to in Maryland):
I prefer “ma’am” over “sir.” I get “sir” on the telephone quite often, which I attribute to my somewhat deeper than average female voice. If I were in the supermarket and was greeted with “sir,” that might throw me a bit. Either is an acceptable form of address, depending upon gender. I dislike being called “honey,” “dear” or “sweetie,” which for some reason, waitresses, in particular, seem to favor. I can even go with “guys” when it is a group, but “girls” when it’s ladies only leaves me cold.
So, maybe you should just call me “Al.”
If you’ll be my body guard
I can be your long lost pal
I can call you Betty
And Betty when you call me
You can call me Al
Hey, what can you expect from an Elder? A 1986 Paul Simon song.
Bill Twibill
Dear Crustacean:
If it makes you happy, I will answer to either salutation. I really do prefer “sir.” It has the air of elegance and prestige. It is a respectful term of address used without the name. One step away from a knight or baronet used before the name.
Now there is something I would love to hear. Sir William is great, but being announced as Knight or Baronet William will really turn heads.
Steve Leavenworth
Dear Old Crab:
Calling me “sir” means about as much as “have a wonderful day!” I don’t object nor do I feel insulted when it is not used.
