We all have our personal lists of the zaniest, quirkiest,
funniest, craziest or smartest... This week, Edmore Dube, a Sharjah-based Maths teacher, lists his top ten pet peeves.
Touching salt and pepper shakers with greasy fingers: This spoils the BBque for me. My appetite vanishes at the sight of a greasy or ketchup-stained shaker.
People who don't follow instructions: I can't stand people at supermarkets who enter through the "exit'' and exit through the door marked "enter''. And those who pull the door when they're supposed to push and vice versa. Can you not read?
Changing TV channels without asking (when others are present): This shows how egocentric you are; you just don't care about other people's preferences.
Callers who refuse to identify themselves: I don't like cold call sales reps who ask to speak to "the man of the house'' and when they are told he's not available, refuse to give their name but promise to call back.
People who talk at the movies: I can't stand being around people who yak away on cell phones or talk during a movie. The worst scenario is when they are my friends and other people in the cinema shush us. I don't need the distractions, please, I just want my money's worth.
Leaving sharp objects such as a razor or a pins on the chair or bed: Do people really need to be reminded that these objects can injure someone? Is common sense AWOL?
People who pop chewing gum: Now, this I truly dislike. The sound is so annoying. Do people do it because they think it will turn the gum more flavourful? If you wish to chew gum, do so chew quietly - with your mouth closed!
Mumbling something and then saying "forget it'' when asked to repeat what you just said: This is truly irritating. I believe it is bad manners at its worst.
Being put on the speakerphone without warning: Ah, the list continues, especially when I say something silly (not meant for public consumption) and I hear people laughing at the other end of the line!
People who think nose, throat and ears are to be worked at in the public: This is disgusting. Please spare the public. Surely we have enough unpleasant things to tackle on a daily basis without having to put up with this as well.
