These adults act like uncivilised folks who have no consideration for the people around them. Why have Singaporeans become so ungracious and rude?

I have witnessed people shouting across food centres and ignoring the families around who are trying to enjoy their food. They are not only a noise pollution but are also spreading their saliva around. It is disgusting.

When on the roads: What happened to the friendly wave when someone gives way to you (which rarely happens nowadays)?

What happened to 'sorry' when you accidentally knock into a person at the crowded supermarkets? People have even resorted to cutting queues at the NTUC supermarket I visited.

I recently witnessed at 'Toast' an elderly man being told off by a woman in her 40s that he could not have the vacant table, which she was not even using.

What kind of impressions are these people giving to the younger generations? What impressions are we giving tourists who come to Singapore? Such ugly experiences can leave very negative impressions. Why are people venting their frustrations on others? I agree with MM Lee's view: 'A gracious Singapore? Not in my lifetime' and probably not even in mine. The thought is very upsetting.

I believe it's a vicious cycle. People who are gracious are so sick and tired of being nice because everyone around is simply not trying and it causes them to turn nasty too to vent their frustrations.

Let's do something about it. Be an example to your kids and your fellow Singaporeans. If everyone could try to be a little less hot tempered, smile more and be more conscious of the implications their actions have on the people around, life would be more pleasant. Simple gracious acts and a simple smile go a long way. It can even make someone else's day.

Be bothered about the impressions we give to other people. Singapore is so small. Everyone is a potential friend. Would you be rude to a friend?

Cheryl Ng Shu-Ling (Miss)