Wednesday, August 11, 2010, 11:16 PM
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Cliche but a sadly true fact: Chivalry is dead. But I try to have a little positivity so maybe it is somewhere out there, yet to make an appearance right before my very eyes.
While growing up, my parents would strictly instill in us good basic manners; proper way to eat (chew with mouth close, no elbows on table), say thank you especially when someone help to get us something eg. the waiters and cashiers in restaurants and supermarket and to patiently wait for our turn at the line, if we have to push through, say excuse me. Unfortunately I took the lesson a little too far; apparently I have a habit to say sorry even when the situation doesn't requires me to say it! I am on my way to correct it.
This is more evident to me after I've graduated from high school and went out to join the working force for two years temporarily; boy, was I in for a shock. I startlingly realized how rude people can get, demanding and treating my colleagues and I as if we were beneath them merely because of our job description. This was most evident with the customers who try to flaunt their wealth but it was obvious their financial status were the exact opposite or the so-called 'New Rich', with them obnoxiously determine to show us just how rich they are (
we get it, you've got money. But what's the deal for me?). It got to the point that it was upsetting and I began to dislike my job in customer service.
However, there were one of those rare customers who would politely greet us back with a smile when we greet them and genuinely ask how our day was. It truly brightens up the whole day and all with a simple act of politeness. It's no surprise that we gave our best service possible and each comes out happy.
Seriously, it is not that hard and it's a win-win situation for everyone.
I honestly cannot see what these people gain from being so rude. The impression imprinted on people's mind is not favorable at all. All that from a vicious remark or an arrogant smirk.
On the subject on chivalry, it has long been heatedly discussed in articles, forums and among my (girl)friends. Recently, a friend of mine told me about all the behavior of guys that we were mutually acquainted with and it ended with us both shaking our heads in disappointment. Sure, there is the argument of feminism but seriously, to throw away the sense of chivalry all together? Two such examples is
the guy who dodge the ball with his girlfriend taking the hit and Mel Gibson.
Anyway, with a quick search online found me the code of chivalry that apparently dates back to medieval times and here are some of them:
- Never attack an unarmed foe.
- Never use a weapon on an opponent not equal to the attack.
- Never attack from behind.
- Avoid lying to your fellow man.
- Avoid cheating.
- Exhibit self control.
- Show respect to authority.
- Respect women.
- Exhibit Courage in word and deed.
- Defend the weak and innocent.
- Never abandon a friend, ally, or noble cause.
- Always keep one's word of honor.
- Always maintain one's principles.
- Never betray a confidence or comrade.
- Avoid deception.
- Respect life and freedom.
- Exhibit manners.
- Be polite and attentive.
- Be respectful of host, women, and honor.
- Loyalty to country, King, honor, freedom, and the code of chivalry.
- Loyalty to one's friends and those who lay their trust in thee.
Extracted from
here, which features the code of Courtly Love as well but can you be a doll and you save me the trouble of sticking it here? Thank you ;)
Also, AskMen.com provided a good argument for both sexes. Cure your curiosity
here.
This lengthy post was inspired by recent events witnessed in first-hand account and incidents told by my family and friends. Plainly, I got too pissed off.
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Labels: people, Random Babbles, Slice of life