PEOPLE

The Southeast Missourian asked people how they felt about others addressing them by their first names, and whether this informality reflects a declining level of respect in our society.

Larry Kitchen: "Personally, I would prefer that others call me by my first name because I always like people to feel comfortable talking to me. I would prefer Mr. from someone under 18; however, I would address others by Mr. or whatever, until I got to know them better."

Steve Gerard: "I don't mind if someone who knows me calls me by my first name, but it doesn't matter that much. However, if I'm talking with someone in a business situation, I would rather that they call me Mr. I almost always call others Mr. because it shows respect."

Debbie Bowers: "When someone calls me Mrs. Bowers, I don't equate myself with that. I don't take offense at being called Debbie because it is more of a comfort for me. I think this generation does not look at using titles as significantly as it was done in the past."

Al Oliver: "I think people should offer to other people a little more respect when addressing them. I feel this is lacking in our society today. More people talking to me on the telephone on a first-time basis call me by my first name, and I feel that is less appropriate."

Diane Thorne: "I'm not at all offended by anyone addressing me as Diane. I'm not used to being called Mrs. Thorne, and when I am called that, it puts a little age on me. I think I'm still Diane. I feel more comfortable with someone older, though, by not using their first name."

Karen Loftin: "I'm perfectly comfortable by being called Karen. I think that is more acceptable around here, because we are not a big city. I'm a country girl, and I don't need the formalities. I would probably put another person on a first name basis with me right away."