How To Be A Gentleman

Everyone knows the saying, "Chivalry is dead", and if you have seen Dave Chappelle's "Killing Them Softly",  you'll remember his response that women killed it (If you haven't seen his stand-up, I urge you to get your act together, please). One of the saddest thoughts that comes to my mind almost daily, is that there IS quite a shortage of chivalrous gentleman and I frankly don't understand why. 

Most of my blog entries are and will be geared towards females, but I feel I need to, on behalf of women that try to be ladies, mention what men can do to woo us and sweep us off of our feet. (No we do not like being yelled at while we're getting groceries at Walmart.)

I'm not sure if men thinks it's too difficult to think about something other than their car or abs or light beer, OR maybe they are afraid of not treating women as their equal. So, I will give some simple instructions on how to improve your relationships with others and be an all around stand up guy. 

*Before I begin with these helpful hints, I will say that I understand it can be difficult to read women. Start with basic politeness and see how she responds. Some women are obviously more feminist and others will relish in your old-fashioned tricks. Alter as needed.*

How To Be A Gentleman Towards Ladies:

1. Open doors for her. Car doors and restaurant doors, mainly. If she automatically gets out of the car, don't stress, you'll have plenty more opportunities to step it up. 
2. Let the lady decide where she wants to sit at the table before you sit down.
3. Let her order first. This is a pretty big pet peeve of mine, because it is so simple. 
4. Wait until she takes the first bite before you start eating. This one is never done. But when I have seen it, I think it's adorable.  And it's nice to make sure her food is good before you've devoured yours in one bite. 
5. Give her your jacket. Or at least offer it. 
6. If you are on a sidewalk taking a stroll, let her walk on the inside. It will show your protective side (and if anyone is going to trip into traffic, it should be you ;)).
7. While out with your friends, keep her by your side and part of the conversation. It's rude to stand in front of her while you're chatting with your buddies or not realizing she has went somewhere else in the area to engage in better conversation. 
8. If you are interested in her, pursue her. Ladies want chased, not the other way around. 
9. Buy her flowers. Most men think flowers are pointless since they die three days later. Let me make this clear -> women DO NOT CARE how long flowers last; they just want them. Flower buying is not about you, it's about her. 
10. If you are waiting to be seated at a restaurant and there are women standing, let them have your seat. They will probably decline, but they will thank you. DEFINITELY offer it to a pregnant woman.

Now that isn't so difficult, is it? Start with a few of those basics and work your way up. There are a few general rules, as well, for life as a gentleman.

How To Be A Gentleman In General:

1. When pouring beverages or serving food, serve yourself last. 
2. Wear properly fitted clothing. Who doesn't want to look their snazziest?
3. Shake hands when meeting new people (and friends if you prefer it).
4. Show the same amount of basic respect to everyone you encounter, whether your parent or a waiter. 
5. Have and keep a job.
6. Explore new hobbies that do not include 6 hours of ESPN or XBOX.
7. Learn how to use your hands. It is always helpful to be the person that can fix a car or build a tree house. And ladies love a man that is good with his hands. 
8. Use your manners. Please and Thank You never killed anyone.
9. Stand up and say your goodbyes when people are leaving. It shows appreciation and respect towards your acquaintances. 
10. Give premium liquor as a gift to men, and flowers as a gift to women. Unless, of course the woman likes liquor. :)
11. Play fair (and fight fair if you must fight at all.)
12. Enjoy the arts.
13. Read. Seriously.
14. Take pride in something. 

A little bit can always go a long way;                                    a lot can make you well rounded. 

And while you're at it, make this website a favorite - The Art Of Manliness

C.