“Chivalry IS NOT DEAD”
Last Monday I was on the road. I traveled to an event roughly four hours distance from my home. Off of the Interstate, I pulled into a truck stop for some lunch and for some fun. I love truck stops. Watching people come and go at a place like this is top-notch entertainment.
The burly road warriors who move commerce across America are amazing men. They travel on congested highways dodging ditsy blonds who cut them off in traffic. (Hmmm, I might resemble that remark) 
Just kidding. I never mess around with an 18-wheeler. No way!
The restaurant was not overly crowded on this particular day. There were just a few Knights of the Road sprinkled around the tables with their lunch. I placed my order, took it to a table, then sat down.
You might wonder if this five foot four, blond was a tad nervous being the only woman in the joint. Nope! Jesus, of course, was with me. The Holy Spirit sat across the table and there were at least 10 dozen angels milling about the place – security detail.
I sat munching and watching. Kitty-corner to my table was a beefy man who appeared finished with his meal when I sat down. He had a kind look about him. He lounged in the booth satisfied just to be sitting there and not behind the wheel.
I finished my sandwich; crumpled the paper, used my napkin, then stood up. The trucker stood up at the same time and started walking toward me. I watched. He approached with a sheepish grin and said, “I will pick up your trash for you.” He did and walked the tray to the garbage and dumped it.
“Chivalry IS NOT DEAD” my heart sang!
I grinned from ear to ear at the kindness of this sizeable trucker. I touched his arm with a pat and said, “Wow, thank you very much.” He grinned, I beamed back, and we parted ways.
In this day and age our men hesitate to be chivalrous. I guess they must be so careful not to offend that they just stop trying. I understand why.
When I am blessed to receive kindness from a gallant man today, I am certain to thank him showing my appreciation and respect. I make an overt effort to thank my husband when he opens my door or carries in the groceries.
The LORD created our men to be heroes. They want to protect, to provide, to shelter, and to cherish their woman. Our Lord is so wise!
Lord, I thank you for men of courage. Men who defend our country. Men who traverse the roadways of commerce. Men who stand up for widows and orphans. Men who navigate the tricky world of business to slay the dragon for us their women. Lord, teach us to love and respect them for who they are and to see them as You do. In Jesus name, Amen.
Your post made me giggle – I don’t why. I guess just how you have written your little story about your stop at a trucker-stop. I think I was very nice that he picked up your trash 🙂
You are right, Lynn. We do need to show the respect to men – especially our own. I too thank my Sweetheart when he helps me out with things 🙂
Thank you so much for sharing. Be blessed today and always.
What an awesome story, and gives hope to the Mom of three boys 😉
SWEET!!!!!!! 10 dozen angels??? Must have been something to behold!
Wonderful my friend, thanks for sharing.
How sweet! It’s nice to know that there are still a few gentlemen out there.
Lynn…how neat. Since my dad is a trucker (all my life), I can picture this scene quite well. No, chivalry is not dead…sometimes it may be hindered…but it is not dead in the least!
That was such a wonderful post. I think it is great that a man can/would do this for someone. I loved the way you worded this post. The Lord did create our men to be heros, to protect and provide for their families. This truly sounds like a man who was taught well. Thanks for sharing this today. Enjoyed my time here. God Bless!
A good reminder to always thank men who do show us chivalry, especially our husbands! They are sure getting knocked around in this culture! Thanks for the post!
I, too, thank people for kindness and my husband, as well, when he does things for me. It isn’t often that we are graced with kindness from strangers in the way you were – it’s a blessing that shouldn’t be ignored.
Well said Lynn and I couldn’t agree more. I think we’ve gotten men so confused they don’t know what to do any more. Your smile and thank you must have meant a lot to that kind man. Good for you!!
Where are these men? Yes I know they exist. I have been known to hold a door for a man once in awhile. I tell them, “I am just being a GENTLE WOMAN” Does not hurt to let them know as subtle as possible that there is a lady in their presence… hmmm. could that be why I am single..
God bless ya I love your blog
deb
That is so heartening to hear!!!