Southern Hospitality isn’t just a saying or a catchphrase it almost becomes a way of life, when you grow up in the South. Growing up in the smallest of cities in East Alabama- so small and quaint, even finding it on the map would prove to be challenging. Many of us were raised to respect our elders. The common courtesy to say “yes ma’am” and “no sir”. Southern hospitality is just a way of life. Weather it is sipping lemonade or sweet tea on your front porch or having Sunday dinner at grandma’s house.
Southern hospitality has several trends that follow along with it. Politeness is a charming key to southern hospitality. Even before we were old enough to count to five or say our ABC’s, we knew how to say please and thank you. Good home cooking, hospitality, and food in the south go hand in hand. There is no person in the south that does not know what a peach cobbler tastes like. Many of our grandparents and parents make no apologies for their usage of lard as butter or cast-iron skillets. Often, we hear that one dish is never enough, because you never know when company is near. Kindness is key in the south, just a simple smile, and a head nod is a friendly gesture in saying hello.
The charm that floats through the south is like a breath of fresh air. Making others feel comfortable and welcomed is what us southerners are known for. When you leave a store and you hear, “Y’all come back you hear”, or when you hear your grandmother say, “I Reckon”, or your “Throwing a hissy fit”. It’s just all about that southern charm.
Well, bless your heart, if you ever come across the Mason-Dixon line heading towards the South just remember your shades. Come on down and sit a spell, we will hand you a glass of sweet tea, and the latest pair of flip flops. Just remember southern hospitality is like a diamond in the rough!
By D’Cara Hood