A few weeks ago, I took my daughter to a playground and there was a dog running up and down the slides and leaping off the top of the jungle gym. Due to an unfortunate incident when she was younger, my daughter is legitimately terrified of dogs, and after watching this dog bowl over a toddler, I decided I should probably take action. Deducing that the teenage girl holding a leash was the owner, I asked very politely if she could comply with the “All Dogs Must Remain on Leash” signs posted all over the park.

I greatly overestimated both her literacy and her common decency, as she proceeded to unleash a fusillade of obscenities. However, Princess Profanity did preface this eruption with, “Respectfully,” and then did say, “Please,” once or twice, so this obviously gave her license to justify her entitlement complex.

But clearly, merely saying “Respectfully” doesn’t automatically morph vulgarity into dignified discourse. Signing your impersonal, AI-generated email with “Sincerely” doesn’t make it any less insincere. And saying “No offense” after something blatantly offensive isn’t some sort of free pass to be an incorrigible jerk.

No matter your position, title, or perceived status, please be considerate of others. And if you consider others, you will respectfully and sincerely do your best to ensure there is no offense.

Colossians 4:6