Chivalry. Return Please.

The day before yesterday, I was driving to work and heard on the radio how the topic of chivalry was coming up in the circles of conversations among women. Or, should I say, the lack of chivalry? Now, before you men write me off and click to read another article, hear me out.

As much as I hate to admit it, men aren't the only ones who are at fault. As a woman, I can see how my sex has failed as well. There are very few ladies left. Thus, this keeps men from being able to be chivalrous.

But what is chivalry anyway?

It is defined as a combination of qualities including honor, courage, justice, and courteous behavior towards women. It is not the outwardly appearance (though this is important), but the character and nature that a man carries. I've listed a few things that exemplify chivalry. Though these don't characterize all the qualities desired by a woman, they are a start.

Being chivalrous is found in the heart. It is the act of a boy leaving his boyish ways to behave like a man.

• Opening the car or any other door for a woman.
• Allowing a woman to go first in line and before himself (an act of servanthood).
• Pulling out a chair for a woman at a meal before she sits down. And then he helps push her chair towards the table.
• Not sitting down until all the women are seated at the table.
• Stands up when a woman leaves the table.
• When picking up a woman on a date, he goes to the front door to get her. He doesn't honk the horn or text her of his arrival.
• If there is a long walk from the car, drop off those in the car with you and then join them after you've parked the car.
• Allow ladies to order first when you go out to eat.
• When walking on the sidewalk, place yourself on the outside closest to traffic.
• If a woman is cold, offer her your coat or jacket.
• When dropping a date off, walk her to her door.
• If you see a woman carrying something heavy, offer to carry it. If she refuses, be assertive. Take it from her and help. Every woman is appreciative of assistance.
• Call when you say you will.
• Don't make promises you can't keep. Follow through on your word.
• Don't disrespect a woman.
• Protect a woman at all costs.
• Escort a woman at a formal event.
• Compliment her often.
• Don't play games. Be honest with her.

These suggestions are coming from a woman. What you, as a man, might see as something small, has great ramifications. Remember that the small details are noticed (even when you don't think they are). Women are very perceptive. My prayer for women is that we'll be great appreciators and express our gratitude often. 

Bottom line: Men be men. Women, be ladies.

This is what we were created for.