It appears that chivalry is no longer working. It seems to be on holiday and in some places, on life support or maybe, even dead! As we celebrate the Labor Day weekend, I am adamant about putting chivalry back to work!
Labor Day is a holiday that was created as a result of a labor movement in 1885. By 1894 it was adopted as law and legislated as a national holiday. The purpose of Labor Day is to celebrate social and economic accomplishments of American workers who contribute to this nation by supporting its economic growth. The holiday commemorates the advancement of our country’s pride, power and prosperity.
I would have to say, though we have grown leaps and bounds in so many areas, we seemed to have regressed in so many others. We seem to have gotten so caught up in prospering economically that we have lost some of the simple things that make life meaningful. Social justice, race relations, financial equality are ideals that have proven to be major setbacks but for me, another of those ideals is chivalry.
Though it may not seem important to many, it is of grave importance to me. It speaks to how, as a people, we have lost a basic caring for one another. There is a difference in caring about me and caring for me. Caring about me is comparable to having empathy, a
minimal amount of thought and feeling might accompany it, but it requires no further action. However, caring for me necessitates action. Caring for me requires you not only understand how I feel but your compassion moves you to concern and accountability.
I know you may think this a bit heavy for the topic of chivalry, conversely, I think it may not be heavy enough. I consider chivalry to be a lost art that is sorely missed. Chivalry is simply having courage, honor, loyalty, respect and consideration for others. My dad used to say, “When respect is gone, you don’t have to worry, love had already gotten its coat and hat and left!”
My Godson posted this quote as a Feminist Philosophy Lesson on his Facebook page: “The door-opening and similar services provided are services which really are needed by people who are for one reason or another incapacitated-unwell, burdened with parcels, etc. So the message is that women are incapable”. -Marilyn Frye. I don’t know about other women but this was an insult to me. I love and appreciate having my door opened by a gentleman. It is not a sign that I am weak nor incapable. It is a symbol that the gentleman thinks I am important enough for him to show his consideration toward me and open my door!
So, men as you celebrate this Labor Day, put chivalry back to work. Demonstration your courage by caring for a woman. Show that not only is chivalry not dead, but it’s reentering the work force!
agreatlife2day 