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Table manners play a significant role in maintaining a pleasant dining environment by promoting cleanliness and ensuring that no one feels uncomfortable or disgusted during meals. These social norms guide individuals on how to eat politely, including practices like chewing with one’s mouth closed, using utensils appropriately, etc. By adhering to these conventions, diners can minimize mess and distractions, allowing everyone to focus on enjoying their meal and engaging in meaningful conversation. Additionally, practising good table manners demonstrates respect for both oneself and others, fostering a sense of mutual courtesy and consideration at the dining table.
One such situation is faced by u/NextStopMyA** which he recounted on Reddit. In a relationship with his partner Ally, OP faces a dilemma regarding her table manners. Despite his efforts to address her noisy and sloppy eating habits, particularly when consuming pasta, Ally remains resistant to change. Frustrated by her refusal to adapt, the OP decided not to dine with her in public if noodles were on the menu. However, when Ally disregarded their agreement and ordered spaghetti at a restaurant, he left abruptly, causing a scene.
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Source: Reddit
1. Did OP overreacted by walking out when his girlfriend again ordered spaghetti even after their deal?
2. The OP moved in with his girlfriend five months back.
3. Ally’s table manners are lacking; she consumes food noisily and messily. While it’s manageable in a bustling restaurant, it becomes more apparent and bothersome in quieter settings.
4. His girlfriend’s habit of loudly slurping noodles attracts unwanted attention from nearby diners. The constant murmurs about her noisy eating are embarrassing, particularly in a cultural context where such behaviour is perceived as uncultured.
5. Despite numerous efforts by OP to teach her alternative manners, Ally remains adamant about her loud pasta-eating habits, rejecting suggestions to use a spoon or take smaller bites.
6. The OP agrees that one should not care about what other thinks but the way his girlfriend eats is very disgusting.
7. Expressing frustration, OP informed Ally of his decision to refrain from dining with her in public if she orders noodles again. Despite the straightforward message, Ally dismissed it casually with a sarcastic remark.
8. During their recent visit to the local Italian restaurant, Ally opted for lasagna when asked if she would order spaghetti, prompting a relieved agreement from OP.
9. Ally reneged on her agreement and ordered spaghetti despite promising otherwise when the waitress arrived. The OP, disappointed, excused himself from the table, opting to wait in the car.
10. Upon returning home, Ally confronted OP, berating him for embarrassing her and monopolizing the conversation. Despite his attempt to explain, she insisted solely on an apology, which he declined, leading her to retreat to another room.
Now that you have read the story, it’s time for you to see what Redditors had to say about this. Read till the end to see what are other people’s opinions on this.
11. The OP’s girlfriend exhibits table manners reminiscent of a 10-year-old child, displaying a lack of awareness regarding appropriate behaviour in public settings.
12. Your girlfriend seems to live by the “If you can’t take me at my worst” motto.
13. One should follow the rules of the place they live in…slurping noodles with noise is considered uncultured in the USA.
14. The OP’s girlfriend might find a kindred spirit in someone who, like her, has unique preferences, such as adding tomato ketchup to spaghetti only to wash it off, all in the pursuit of preserving the essence of tomato flavour.
15. The OP’s girlfriend is trying to punish OP for holding a boundary he made her well aware of.
16. For many people, consistent obnoxious eating habits can become a significant deal breaker in a relationship.
17. His girlfriend could greatly benefit from learning some table manners, as noisy eating habits are often perceived as unattractive and off-putting.
18. Maturing as an adult involves adapting and refining oneself to better fit into society and navigate social interactions effectively.
19. At 24 years old, one is considered mature enough to possess and exhibit proper eating and table manners.
20. She exhibits a willingness to embarrass the OP in public settings, yet is unable to tolerate similar treatment from him.
The relationship dynamic between OP and Ally is fraught with tension stemming from differences in table manners and communication. While the OP has attempted to address their concerns diplomatically, Ally’s resistance and disregard for his feelings have led to a breaking point. Other Redditors also agree with OP that one should have proper table manners and his girlfriend should change the way she eats. Do share your opinions in the comments section below.
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