  We present an elementary proof concerning reciprocal transmittances and
reflectances. The proof is direct, simple, and valid for the diverse objects
that can be absorptive and induce diffraction and scattering, as long as the
objects respond linearly and locally to electromagnetic waves. The proof
enables students who understand the basics of classical electromagnetics to
grasp the physical basis of reciprocal optical responses. In addition, we show
an example to demonstrate reciprocal response numerically and experimentally.
