DEAR MISS MANNERS: Many times, I have experienced the situation where someone is completely blocking a store aisle with their shopping cart. They see me coming and either move their basket aside to let me pass or I have to say, “Excuse me,” and then they move it.

Some people say “Sorry” for blocking me, but some mumble a sarcastic “You’re welcome” to me as I go by, apparently because I don’t say “Thank you” for their efforts.

I feel I should not have to say thank you to them for correcting a situation they caused to begin with. Good manners would require not blocking the aisle in the first place. This happens to me often. What do you suggest?

GENTLE READER: Six words: “Excuse me. Thank you. You’re welcome.” And you only have to say four of them.

Miss Manners’ point is that to be this angry — and stingy — about when to parcel out such kindnesses is beneath you. If someone’s cart is blocking the aisle, let’s assume it was a moment’s thoughtlessness, not a nefarious plot — and that saying “Excuse me” costs you nothing.

True, we can do without a sarcastic “You’re welcome” if you forget to say thanks — but let’s not forget. It will make the world a slightly less abrasive place.

Please send your questions to Miss Manners at her website, www.missmanners.com; to her email, [email protected]; or through postal mail to Miss Manners, Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.