I don't mind being called ma'am. I also think it is too familiar for someone who has never met me to call me by my first name, especially if they are younger than me. I prefer Mrs. ___.

Around here they call me Miss. I hate it. I am not Miss. I wear a wedding ring and I am old enought to be these kids' mothers. I'm sure they think they are being polite but I find it ignorant. I also find being called young lady insulting. I am not old but I am not young. If people call me that I think they are making fun of my age. I am proud of my age. I love this stage of my life and I have earned every scar and wrinkle. Don't belittle me by saying it is not so.

I have started correcting people who use those two terms toward me. The speakers look at me like I am crazy and don't understand what I am talking about. These kids need to learn some manners and social skills.