I believe that words have power, so I attempt to speak power and choose my words carefully. I often refer to men as gentlemen and women as ladies. I sometimes get interesting responses. So, as a refresher, and for the purpose of this reflection, I decided to look up both words and their definitions.
Gentleman: A chivalrous, courteous, or honorable man. A polite or formal way of referring to a man.
Lady: A term of respect. A woman of superior social position especially one of noble birth. A man’s woman or wife. There are a variety of other definitions, but we will go with this for now.
Now call me old fashioned, and I will unapologetically accept the reference, but I think these words have more significance than guy, dude, dog, girl, chick, or broad! That’s just me! A gentleman or a lady, carries themselves in a certain manner. Now, before ya’ll start sending me e-mails or inbox messages, I know that there are a wide variety of definitions, experiences, and perspectives that each of you can bring to the table and invite you to share them as I am always looking for other perspectives. But, as of late, I have just been bothered by the lack of respect that seems to prevail between men and women in certain scenarios. How did we get so far off the mark?
(Respect) Ladies, we know you are perfectly capable of opening your own door. Can you reserve that capability to when he is not around and THEN open the door yourself? Please? Car door, restaurant door, it’s a door! It’s not that serious! Please let the man open the door! Also, I hear you! I work out too so I can life that heavy box BUT, he offered to lift it and take it to my car for me. “Thank you” should be your only response ladies!
(Security) Gentleman, we go to a restaurant and we are seated and I’m facing the door? Or we are walking down the street together and I am curbside? I’ll leave it there! PLEASE let me know your thoughts. Am I THAT old fashioned? Do I need to get over it? Help a sister out? Inquiring minds desire to know.
I am Paula G Voice! I am a sagacious independent lifestyle influencer. I am embracing my own journey and sharing experiences along the way. I am challenging dreamers to do the same by breathing life into their deferred dreams and living out the reality! It is never too late to embrace your journey and live your dreams! Visit Paula’s Blog at www.paulagvoice.com for the full journey.
Mindset Question:
What gestures do you see that makes a man a gentleman or a woman a lady?
Lesson Learned:
There is sometime to be said for the small gestures that show courtesy or concern.
Wisdom Challenge:
Make a conscious effort to show your significant other a gesture of courtesy or concern.