Written by JP Carlos
When you
say chivalry; many imagine knights saving damsels in distress. But one does not have to wield swords and wear
armors to show chivalry. Rather, it is the
gesture of putting other’s well-being before one’s self. Gallantry, bravery, loyalty, valor are some
words associated with this word. Has it
died with the medieval times? Or is it alive
in some nook and cranny somewhere?
When was
the last time you saw someone exhibit such a trait? Well, noble steeds have been replaced by
modern transportation and swords and lances have morphed into other tools of
the trade. But I believe that it still
exists until today. For example, take a
look at the men and women of the armed forces, police and other security and
safety organizations. They brave the
elements just to secure sovereignty, ensure peace and provide peace of mind to
all. All these for people they barely
know. Also, get a glimpse of what search
and rescue teams do. They put themselves
in peril so that they can save lives.
Paramedics and EMTs do this on a daily basis with a conviction that
rivals the knights of old. Likewise,
firefighters storm into blazing infernos just to save lives and safe-keep
properties. It is a perilous task but
they do it anyway. Chivalry is
alive. But is it limited to these
professions?
I am sure
that ordinary people who are not obligated by an oath to a job can exhibit
chivalry. But lately, it is scarce. When you walk down the road, do you fear for
your safety or are enveloped by a feeling of safety and assurance?
In a world where
“I” and “Me” are more important “they” and “us” it is difficult not to think
that chivalry is dead except in some professions. Can we still take claim that
humanity is selfish and self-centered? Perhaps. If chivalry is not dead, it is probably at a
terminal state. It is when we seriously
value life, not just our own that chivalry can fight its dead. When humanity shows courage without fear of
losing one’s life for the common good, then chivalry can rise once more as an
integral part of humanity. When people
begin to understand that valor is not just about the “kill or be killed”
attitude, chivalry will once again become the norm.
If chivalry
is not dead, it is dying with each generation that does not value bravery,
valor, loyalty and the basic respect for human life.
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