The niceties of life

I can't help but think that I'm a lucky woman. I'm married to a man who still holds value in the gentleman mentality. Something that is losing merit as our society progresses. I think about the little things he does that are a sign of respect for me and for women in general. Little things like holding the door as we walk in/out of a building, opening the car door as I get seated, and waiting to eat only when all the women are seated at the table and have themselves began to eat. Yes, these niceties that I worry my daughters will never experience for themselves from someone other than their father.

I know it's something that isn't in my hands, but God's. But, being human, I still tend to worry about my daughters missing out on the niceties. Isa, my oldest, is only five years old, and I wonder if other boys her age are being taught these little things. My father, for example, knew and understood these gentlemen attributes, but never was a gentleman himself. As a result, my brother, the only male sibling, never learned what it means to be a gentleman. In fact, I recall a specific moment when I visited my family last in which I was enjoying a meal with my dad. My brother and his girlfriend joined us not long after. As they prepared to eat, she got up to grab a drink and he began to chow down on his food. I looked at him and said, "you know, you should really wait until she gets back before you start." He looked at me with this puzzled look on his face. "Nuh uh," he retorted. I continued to tell him that it is rude to begin eating before your woman is ready. He looks at my dad, who responds, "well, you're supposed to." He was surprised by my reaction, but even more so by my dad's response. He gently put his fork down and waited for her to return.

Of course, I consider myself spoiled sometimes because of what my husband does. For example, I couldn't tell you the last time I pumped gas in any of our vehicles. Matt has made every effort to make sure that when I get into our truck or car, that they have sufficient gas for my trip that day. Of course, I think he's going out of his way now because of my current physical state. I'm 32 1/2 weeks pregnant. Still, I appreciate his efforts and make sure to thank him for everything he does.

I understand that a woman's independence is held in high regard nowadays. I really don't have a problem with that. I mean, as a woman, you have to be able to take care of yourself. But, there's nothing wrong with letting your husband be a man and take care of you and the family.