As a speech teacher, I told my students about a boss who was hiring new employees. He deliberately left a book on the floor and waited to see who would stop to pick it up. Then he planned to hire that candidate.

Recently, Donald Trump was about to board Marine 1. One of the Marines standing at attention had his cover (hat) blown off by a strong wind. According to Marine protocol, he did not move. Trump kindly picked up the hat and placed it on the Marine’s head. The wind blew it off again and Trump attempted to catch it. He bent over again, picked up the hat and gave it to the Marine.

Often the true character of a person is illustrated by little courtesies like this.

Dan Manka

Fairmont, W.Va.

The writer is a former Regent Square resident.

Copyright ©2025— Trib Total Media, LLC (TribLIVE.com)