One of my favorite reads a couple decades back was a comprehensive book on etiquette by Miss Manners. Extraordinarily logical and non-judgmental, she untangled the trickiest of human situations in a single paragraph, sometimes in a single sentence. Never condemned the participants nor analyzed the dynamics. Just offered time-honored ways to behave in the face of any event, be it joyful, sorrowful, boring or explosive. This is what you do.

Succinctly witty, she could be so funny she brought tears. Yet Miss Manners’ writing was dedicated to peace. It upheld the notion that etiquette is a fundamental element in minimizing misunderstanding, anger and hurt, and in ensuring pleasurable gatherings.

Miss Manners would make an understated, effective, bon-vivant emperoress. Invasions are not polite, my dear. A glass of champagne?

Her buttoned-down appearance belied a free spirit who embraced diversity, found flight in the intricate mastery of rules that govern social interaction among humans.

I emulate however imperfectly the clarity of her writing, her approach to peace. A salute to you, Miss Manners. Cheers.