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Old Sep 12, 2018 | 7:33 pm
  #143  
akl_traveller
20 Countries Visited5 Years on Site
 
Join Date: Jun 2017
Location: AKL
Posts: 176
Originally Posted by Proudelitist
I don't suffer fools, and there are plenty of them in the air.
One can both (a) not suffer fools and (b) still remain polite.

Here's a hint: "This bill is wrong" vs. "I should think you might have accidentally mixed up my order - could you check?"
Both lead to you getting your money back. The latter one enables you both to save face (you if you got it wrong, them if they made a mistake."

Here's how you could (a) not suffer fools and (b) be polite.
"Might I borrow a pen?"
"Absolutely," (smiling) "I always think it's a good idea to have a pen, you never know who might ask for one!"

The recipient will understand exactly what you are saying, but you are doing it in a polite manner that leaves everyone feeling happy.
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