There have been many instances where awkward moments could have been avoided. My prom night in fact had such an occurrence where the other couples held no restraint at the dining table. Their informal and inappropriate behavior dashed the formality of the evening and spoiled the significance of our attire and place of dining. If a better knowledge of dining etiquette and simply good manners were in place, could the discomfiture of the evening have been avoided? In these instances I believe the long-forgotten rules of dining etiquette should be reinstated to permeate current society.

The origins of dining etiquette are not a mystery; they are simply the result of individual cultures identifying values and defining the role and significance that food plays in society. As a nation with such passion for food, “The French are notorious for their rules and regulations regarding their food” ("International Dining Etiquette"). Louis XIV had great influence in the regulations set on the realm of food, which “have infiltrated homes and restaurants” ("International Dining Etiquette") and has matured to a tier recognized as supreme. The role of etiquette is to show reverence to those whom prepared the food, the presence of the food, those whom you are dining with, and the host or hostess who trust your ability to be a no-less-than agreeable at their table of dining. England in instances of war and rationing created differences in expression towards etiquette; these developments then influenced the social structure of the English and their interpretation of value. When food was a scarcity, “there was no excuse leaving anything on your plate, because you never knew” ("International Dining Etiquette") the next time food would be available. Currently this tradition is divided in England as an indicator for “indifference to waste could even be used to show off your wealth” ("International Dining Etiquette") in that there was no lack of resources.

Without good manners and an understanding of etiquette, any dinner can have instances where the pleasurable occasion can be thwarted. Waiting until “everyone is seated before eating” ("Dining Etiquette Suggestions") is etiquette and common courtesy that all should heed notice, unless there are more than seven at table. The amount of seven or more suggests that it is a larger function than an intimate dinner and possibly waiting for the arrival of all guests could cause the food to become cold. Respect should be shown always towards those that you are sharing a meal with. Respect can be shown in how you intend to make the other feel. “When dining with others […] If you are a fast eater try to pace yourself” ("Dining Etiquette Suggestions"), for when you start and finish at the same time you will not leave others to feel uncomfortable and given the feeling that they are being rushed. When enjoying a great meal, it is certain that dialogue will be exchanged and purely out of respect for the other individuals of which you are dining you should present them with much attention. It is advised to leave all belongings that are “not part of the meal” ("Dining Etiquette Suggestions") away from the table so not tempted to play with keys, cellular phones, or other distractions. These distractions attract from conversation and interaction between those you are with. Dinner cannot be pleasant with interjections of controversial or offensive conversation where some may be left uncomfortable or distressed during a meal. Simple rules of etiquette are in place to avoid committing erroneous actions when dining with others and it is your reputation and professionalism at stake. It is not an obscure ideal to have guidelines to ensure a “favorable impression” ("Dining Etiquette") and is “essential to professional success” ("Basic Table Manners") when engaging in dining with clients or a prospective employer.

Not only is proper etiquette advantageous to those around you, it too is beneficial to those who are serving you. In application to a current situation where these points of consideration have been overlooked is in the gestures that should take place following the completion of a meal or course. A common way to signal to your server that you are finished “is to lay your fork and knife diagonally across your plate” ("Dining Etiquette") while being mindful of the direction that the utensils are facing out of respect for those who are around you. I have felt unsolicited rushing on the part of the server in that they prematurely assert that I am finished with my plate, when in fact I am not. With a simple familiarity of signaling tools in etiquette much confusion and mistaken completion could be avoided on the part of those serving. Much of what is described as dining etiquette can seem foreign to those who don’t already practice such craft in being mindful of others but it is the smaller uses that heed the most benefit to a society that has long since forgotten these essential implements of etiquette.

Nowadays it is far too common to feel at some point during a meal, uneasy or offended. Simple rules of respect and dignity have been lost to the interest of time and ultimately a lapse in respect. Etiquette “takes the guesswork out of public behavior" ("Dining Etiquette") by simply placing universal “standards that people abide by" ("Dining Etiquette"). It is through these points that there can be confidence that you are acting appropriately. For one who has always been mindful of the welfare and comfort of others, I am excited to learn that there are many untouched areas where I have yet to apply a sense of grace in my dining. It is untoward that much of what is considered proper etiquette has been lost. In the avoidance of these particular practices, some truly helpful habits have been left behind, leaving the opportunity for agitated and objectionable occurrences.

I believe there is a great deal of need for traditional etiquette in all aspects of dining and food. Dining etiquette is very important to ensuring flow and function to any meal where it is the prime matter that your professionalism and utter respect are projected through your ability to perform and abide by the guidelines of common sense and conventional rules of proper dining etiquette. Dining etiquette is not just for lunch with royalty but "are the conventional rules in which one should abide by in a dining situation" ("Dining Etiquette Suggestions") in any society and in any opportune moment. Etiquette is what identifies us as not only cultured but individuals who embrace the confines of having a high regard for and reverence towards those who prepare and serve and the gravity that the food and its ramifications on a society and its social framework. Etiquette is crucial and appropriate for all occasions and reaping the benefits of this simple art are more than accessible with a better knowledge and attentive care to others.