Chivalry Is Not Dead

  While we have all heard the common phrase "Chivalry is not dead." or its counterpart "Chivalry is dead.", have you ever pondered just what chivalry is and how in the world it died or didn't die (depending on who is talking)?  It seems now to refer to common courtesy and I have to admit, if that is the going definition, it definitely has died.  Common courtesy has leapt off the mountaintop and down into the gutters of despair.  It is gone, kaput or just out and out died.  

  The full definition of chivalry comes from the methods applied to knighthood back in the Middle Ages.  The Code of Chivalry consisted of bravery, military skill, generosity in victory, piety and courtesy to women.  Ok, so if you look at it that way, you can see that chivalry is indeed dead, gone, kaput or whatever else you wish to call it.  Sorry, not many folks can honestly say they are chivalrous.  A handful of gentlemen may fit the bill to a T but most others cannot come close. 

  Recently, I have noticed that while the human race lacks a good bit in this area, there are some pretty chivalrous critters around here on the Bayou.  At least in the avian world, chivalry is not dead.  It is alive and well and being practiced on a daily basis.  While their ladyloves are on the nest, a good many male birds stand by to protect, feed and even offer a serenade to help pass the time of day.  A male cardinal will go out of its way to bring food to his ladylove.  On extremely hot days, the male cardinal will even wet its feathers to help cool Mrs. Cardinal.  He dotes on her in every way possible all the while standing guard.   The male woodpecker will roost within a short distance of the nesting hole that his ladylove has chosen.  He drums out a warning to other woodpeckers that this is his territory, brings bugs to his wifey and will attack crows that try to steal the eggs from the nest.  The male redwinged blackbirds are territorial, as well, but will band together if need be to drive out snakes, raccoons, cats and humans.  One call is all it takes for the army to reunite from their respected lookout posts. They guard the nests protecting their wives and babes from danger.  So goes it with most birds.  From the tiniest wren to the gigantic eagle, the males usually are highly protective and respectful of the females. Chivalry is not dead.  Not at all.  It has just moved to the critter world for the most part.  

  Just the other day (with the passing of another elderly friend), someone made the remark that "Gone is the day when men were real men.  Gone is the day when respect, kindness, generosity and bravery were common attributes.  The world was a better place back in the day." I agree that the world would be a better place if only more young people were taught these traits. I can say with all honesty, however,  that the menfolk here are just as chivalrous as those from days past.  The hubs, both sons and son-in-law all show respect, bravery, piety, generosity and are highly skilled.  It makes me proud.  Chivalry is not dead.