Knowing that others have gone through similar tragedies may be a help, but it should be remembered that every tragedy is not only commonplace but also unique.
There is nothing like a good friend to help you out when you are not in trouble.
Nowadays, you form your beliefs to fit your behavior, not the other way around.
Chaperons don't enforce morality; they force immorality to be discreet.
You think death is any better an excuse for desertion than any other?
Yes, etiquette is hypocritical. Yes, it does inhibit children - if you're lucky. But the idea that it's elitist and irrelevant is like saying language is elitist and irrelevant.