A Reflection on Courtesy and Respect in Our Chat Group

A Reflection on Courtesy and Respect in Our Chat Group

Dear friends,

Recently, there were some misunderstandings and minor disagreements among members of our WhatsApp chat group, resulting in a few members leaving abruptly. I wish to share my personal thoughts on this matter, not to criticise, but to encourage mutual respect and understanding among us.

When I am invited to join any WhatsApp group, I always feel privileged and honoured. Not everyone is given such an opportunity to be part of a circle where ideas, experiences, and friendship are shared. It is much like being invited as a guest to a wedding, a seat of honour offered out of kindness, and we accept it with grace and gratitude.

In a wedding, guests do not come empty-handed; they bring gifts as a token of appreciation. Similarly, in a chat group, our “gifts” are our stories, thoughts, and contributions that enrich the group. Therefore, when we choose to leave, it is only courteous to thank the host, in this case, the group administrator, and bid farewell respectfully.

Personally, if I ever need to leave a group for personal reasons, I would always express my gratitude first and seek permission politely. I would never depart abruptly without a word, for doing so reflects discourtesy, not only toward the host but also toward every member present.

Leaving suddenly without a word of apology or explanation may give an unfortunate impression of one’s upbringing and social etiquette. It can even invite others to feel “good riddance” toward us, which benefits no one.

Politeness costs nothing, yet it speaks volumes about one’s character and values and social upbringing. A simple word of thanks or apology goes a long way in preserving harmony and mutual respect.

In short, let us always remember that just as we seek permission to enter a gathering, it is equally proper to seek permission or express thanks before leaving.

Remember, just as we have been invited to join a WhatsApp chat group we should feel very honoured to be given a place to share our thoughts with other invited guests in the group just like we have been given a seat in a wedding. We are all wedding guests to our gracious host who have selected and invited us, and it is very rude and impolite to walk out suddenly without even thanking our wedding host - our WhatApp administrator. It reflects our rudeness and absence of social etiquette, not just to the host but also to all the invited "wedding guests"  We just back fire on ourselves as self good riddance to other invited guests   

That is my humble reflection.

Warm regards,

Lim Ju Boo