It’s this time of the season that takes me back to when my sons were much younger. It started in the closets, cleaning out what remained of theirs that no longer fit and either boxing it up for charity, or consigning it out, for someone else’s son to wear. That was the destination of the youth sized, standard styled, brass buttoned, navy blazer that had taken my sons through all of their more than casual outings, the most memorable being cotillion.
Cotillion may conjure up images of a grand ballroom shining in the light of a huge and elaborate chandelier, as full satin skirts whirl across the glossy marble floor. Or, white gowned and gloved debutantes making their entrance into high society on the arms of their fathers. While on television, “The Big Bang Theory’s” Sheldon described his version of the cotillion experience: “In the South, preadolescent children are forced through a process called cotillion, which indoctrinates them with all the social graces and dance skills needed to function in 18th century Vienna.”
Sorry, Sheldon, but your scripted genius is only partially correct, because good manners are timeless. But it is a time-honored tradition in the South that many parents obligate their children to attend. And the cotillion that my sons experienced is open to all families, not only those with pedigrees or wealth.
Yes, dance is part of the curriculum, and although certainly twerking would be prohibited, the moves are more current than the minuet, and greatly appreciated by the young men who someday slow dance with their dates at the prom.
Social skills, etiquette and character education that includes ethics, accountability and citizenship are part of the package of values taught to fifth through seventh grade students over five to six weeks. Table manners and polite conversation, as well as kindness and courtesy, are also covered. It is emphasized that the goal of etiquette is not to point out the mistakes of others, but rather to make folks feel comfortable and welcome. Held across Georgia in neighborhood venues such as churches and country clubs, ours was first conducted at the elegant and charming Founders Hall in historic downtown Roswell.
Good grooming and proper attire are expected, and such a welcome change from what is generally accepted from teens and ‘tweens today. My sons and their friends, reluctant at first, actually enjoyed dressing like “James Bond,” wearing jackets and ties, the young ladies, dresses and demure white gloves. The skills learned are put into practice at the dances and parties that are part of cotillion, making each session a social occasion.
If you haven’t responded to this year’s invitation, it’s likely too late, but not too early to express interest for next year. I’ll enjoy thinking that someone’s son will wear that blazer somewhere special, maybe to a cotillion at Founders Hall or the Olde Towne Athletic Club in Marietta, it deserves to go out and have fun again, it served my sons so well.
-- Vicki Griffin has lived in Roswell for 22 years. You can reach her at vlg1230@hotmail.com
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