I don't see the problem with being called ma'am. I did the first couple times - 'cause that's when you realize you have crossed a line you can not un-cross. But I use ma'am and sir all the time when dealing with the public. It's a respect issue. I don't know your name, we aren't familiars, so it's yes ma'am/sir and no ma'am/sir.
My children also use the same, plus please and thank you. It's a politeness that society has allowed to drop in order to make every one "equal" and "feel" good about themselves. Instead of bringing up the culture and expecting more out of people, we dumb it down and "let it slide".
As for the babe, honey, sweety thing....I call my husband baby and he calls me the same. It's our affection for each other. I know he has referred to me as his "old lady" as southern boys tend to do when they get together, but he has always had the decency not to refer to me that way to my face.
I do think it's a bit annoying when younger "kids" call me hon or sweety - but then, around here, it's a manner of speaking so it's easier to over look. I am quite grateful to be back south. After a year north of the Mason-Dixon, I am happy to be called hon and sugar and darlin'. I am grateful to live in a place where people ask permission and don't just assume, where people say good morning and have a nice day and mean it. To have people thank you for letting them shop in your store!
I used to think "southern hospitality" was a nice name for nosiness. Then I moved away.........now I know there are a lot worse things than everyone knowing your business........
