Whether or not the account is true or fake, it only points out that good manners have been forgotten and/or are totally disregarded by way too many people.
Those diners who simply
have to be connected in some way to their cell phones are almost like hardened addicts who cannot live without their drugs.
How in the world would they have managed in days, not to long passed, before cell phones were only part of someone's imagination? None of us died or exploded because we missed a perceived "important" call. In this instance, define "important."
Courtesy and good manners dictate that consideration be given those who are serving us and wish to provide a pleasant dining experience for us. It works both ways, people! Being a good diner requires that we do our part, too.
I suppose it's because of my age, the way I was brought up and the region in which I lived (the South) that shaped my views.
No male ever came to the table with his hat/cap on no matter how casual or formal the meal. Not a single fork or spoon was lifted until everyone was seated, nor did anyone leave the table until the last person ate all they wished and indicated they were done.
I think a lot of what drives behavior today is that, for some reason, we feel we always have to be in a hurry. Yes, schedules are tight and we pursue a variety of activities and jobs account for much of our time, some of which is our "free" time.
However, if dining out is meant to be a pleasant and relaxing activity, make it so. Take your time. Turn off your phones, engage in conversation with those around you. Talk to people face-to-face and really participate in your time around the table. Your food will taste better, it will probably remain at an acceptable temperature and the service will be good.
Oop! Got carried away. I'll get off my soapbox now.