Thursday, November 12, 2009

Gentlemanly Manners




Okay, without getting into too much detail or personal points, I went on a date recently (yes, I'm single...). Having been brought up in a family where the gent's used to hold open doors for ladies, and being once married to someone who insisted on opening the car door for me, I do not think twice about whether my date will do the same for me - I actually expect it.

Until the other day. Have I become so spoiled? When the date in question simply unlocked the car door (with a remote of course) and just jumped into the drivers side leaving me outside of the car, I had a pang of being insulted. I am not the sensitive type, nor a feminist. I believe in equality. But as my readers know, I am a stickler for good manners.

I believe it shows a great deal about a gentleman when he opens the car door for his lady, any lady. What do you think? Are there certain mannerisms you expect?

And of course, the lady must be gracious and say thank you. It may be expected in my minds eye, to open the door, but it is also greatly appreciated.

5 comments:

Diane said...

If that was my first date, then it would be my last with him. The best manners usually come out then and if that was his best, then uh, oh! :O)

Keith said...

I was always brought up to open the door for a lady. There are other things as well I was taught from the time I was a young boy. Those are good manners. I've done those things with all the women I've dated and known, but some like it and others don't. I had a girl once that wouldn't date me again because I opened the door for her. Oh well. lol I believe in being polite so I will continue to do it and other niceties.

Pam said...

Comedian Steve Harvey talks about this in his dating book "Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man." He absolutely advocates that women should expect a man to open a door for them - whether it's a car or a building. He said chivalry isn't dead - it's just that it's not required anymore by a lot of women.

Hang in there. Being single and dating is not always fun (I speak from experience) but I do believe there are still guys out there with good manners.

Erin @ SYL: Slipcover Your Life said...

I think I have to agree with you on this one (esp. on a date, you want to impress the lady!)

Unknown said...

My thing is if he does do that, you have to say thank you, but also lean over and unlock his side too. I know it's not as big of a thing anymore with all the electronic locks, but just simple gesture.