Thursday, May 1, 2008

Chivalry Men, Chivalry

Chivalry. Where has it gone? The knights of old knew the virtues of honor and courtly love but we, as a modern society, have known about these virtues and looked the other way.
Now, if you're reading this you probably don't want me to get into the most basic of arguments about chivalry which are usually brought about. Sure, holding doors and pulling out chairs for a woman is great. Don't you dare get me wrong. Those are very important for sure. But, I think the fall of chivalry goes much deeper than trivial matters.
First, I believe the focus of this matter revolves around values like respect and love (which I would say is more of a lifestyle). As men, we need to realize what we are getting ourselves into when we court with women. It is a big deal and most certainly not something to be trifling with. We are not dealing with "some girl." We are dealing with a valuable child of God.
Secondly, what right do we as men have to disrespect a woman? None. Men are put in a position of leadership for a reason: To lead, not dominate. I'm not certain where society got the idea that women are less significant than men and completely subordinate to men. Now, the little things are of the utmost importance as well.
No woman wakes up in the morning and says "I hope I don't get swept off my feet today." They don't. They WANT respect, love and admiration from men. Make them feel loved. Don't use uncouth speech around them or at all for that matter. Focus on them and make them feel important for goodness sake.
And I think if you have an assemblance of these ideas of respect and love, other things will fall into place. Cheating on significant others wouldn't happen. Disrespectful comments wouldn't happen.
Just some thoughts.

2 comments:

Erica said...

I LOVE THIS!

Shawn said...

Well said VG.

Two things:

1. "Don't you dare get me wrong" - I love imagining your facial expression as you smashed the keys on your computer to type this sentence.
2. Way to steal a quote from Hitch, the ultimate guide to male chivalry.