chivalry, almost extinct... but not quite

There may no longer be Knights in shiny armour riding around on horses defending the kingdom and saving the damsels in distress. However that does not mean that chivalry rides off into the sunset of history with those galant men of every womans dream. It seems that with more and more feminism movements and talk, chivalry is slowing slipping away. Is it because the older generations are not passing down the ideas of simple courtesy to the younger men from day one? Or is it because those young men are afraid of being chastised for viewing women as needing help? There are many ideas and could be explanations for the reason that it is less common in this day and age.

As a very independent woman, I can see both sides of the issue. At one point, I was just fine opening my own door, and somewhat annoyed if a guy went out of his way to do it for me. Not that that happens very often however... Now, maybe due to my old age (just kidding!), it is the opposite, if a man opens the door for me, insists on paying, gives me a hand over an icy patch and so on, it actually catches my attention. It works in his favor and its that extra little something that shows he really cares. I'm not saying that those who don't do these small acts, don't care either, its just it isn't reinforced. Acts of chivalry are attention grabbing. They open up our eyes to the fact that you're a gentleman and that there might be some more to you than we originally saw. Yes, I can open my doors, I have all my limbs, I make my own money and usually I do go running over the ice just to see how far I can slide, but no woman is going to resist that little extra attention. Atleast no woman in her right mind. Really what woman doesn't want to be taken care of every now and again? Don't get me wrong, we can handle all the vicious world out there on our own, but its nice to know there's someone beside (or behind at some times...) you just incase, or to give you that extra hand when you may need or appreciate it most. I know from my experiences of chivalry, and like I mentioned earlier they are few and far between, it is eye catching. But every act has stood out in my mind as well as the man who was behind it.

Now guys, i'm not saying dress up in shining armor and ride a horse around the city in order to protect the girl. I'm pretty sure that would have the opposite effect and make her run the other direction. However show that little extra effort and consideration and it will take you far. A single flower for no special reason, insist on paying for dinner, hold the door open for her, open her car door first, offer a jacket. Whatever it is, it doesn't make you weak, it makes you knightly.

No Chivalry isn't dead, it's just on the endangered actions list. Almost extinct. So gentlemen, step up and bring it back to life.