This has been one of the best discussions ever on the forum. Very interesting to read other people's views on how they like to be addressed. I think calling me dear or honey reminds me of how hospitals use that term for elderly sick patients to make them feel cared for. And I find that an appropriate place to use it. When I get there I might not mind anymore, for now if they smile and say "have a nice day" it's perfect.

Richard - I remember getting sent to my room for calling my brother a stupid dummy when I was about 11 yrs old...don't even remember why I even called him that, I just remember my mother's tone of voice and her eyes as I marched upstairs to my room. As I recall I never used those words again...