Is it dead?
chiv·al·ry (sh v l-r )
n. pl. chiv·al·ries
1. The medieval system, principles, and customs of knighthood.
2.
a. The qualities idealized by knighthood, such as bravery, courtesy, honor, and gallantry toward women.
b. A manifestation of any of these qualities.
3. A group of knights or gallant gentlemen.
http://www.thefreedictionary.com/chivalry
A few recent incidents have morphed into a monster sized question.
I’ve mentioned the whole cell phone in the public restroom thing before. Ewww.
Apparently, cell phone etiquette is not being taught. I suppose text-messaging “socially acceptable cell phone usage” tips is out of the question. Verizon, Qwest, Sprint – feel free to use my idea.
My co-worker shared her frustration over standing in line at a department store counter as a woman tried to return an item while multi-tasking by talking on her cell phone. The cashier had to interrupt her conversation four times before the woman exploded, hung-up, dealt with the transaction and stormed from the store.
Hmmm. The weighty word “hello” comes to mind.
I hate to judge, but I often overhear cell phone conversations. Generally they resemble something like this.
“Hey.”
“Yeah, I’m bored.”
“Did you see American Idol?”
“*#%*$! Me too. I can’t believe it.”
Now that we have the Bluetooth technology with ear pieces, communication has hit a new level.
Have you carried on a conversation with someone who is talking to the voice in his or her head yet? That’s fun. Something to look forward to.
This morning I practiced a bit of reverse chivalry – it was either that or becoming one with the carpet. Three healthy, seemingly in their right mind and moderately intelligent young men filled a hallway as they walked toward me. Kind of like a football offensive line. I ducked into a doorway. Maybe they were practicing for the annual running of the bulls’ festival. Or I might have donned my invisibility cloak instead of my jacket this morning. I was a little fuzzy when I left the house.
Sigh.
Okay, so which is a dying art? Chivalry, courtesy or common sense?
3 comments:
Today I saw a couple bluetoothing together isn't that sweet!
Ah, yes. It's scary out there. Here in our little home school, we're reading a book about manners. If my girls actually apply what they learn, they'll be like freaks of nature out in the world! Take care, k.
Sadly, all three!
Just last night, I had a conversation with my 15 year old son and his best friend. It went something like this:
"Son, I'm really proud of you for being so polite to your teacher."
"yeah, but you're the only one! My friends tease me for saying 'Yes, M'am."
Best Friend pipes in: "Yeah--everyone knows he's just making fun!"
Huh? Making fun? What happened to common respectful dialogue with your authorities??????
I tried my best to convince his best friend that being respectful was not a joke. His constant reply was, "Things are different these days!"
Hmph!
I only hope Sam's teacher understands that he is not being sarcastic, he is being respectful.
Diane
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