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10/31/2013
When I was young, starting at 4 years old, my mother would always make me open the door for her and my sister. Whether getting in or out of the car or going into a store before they were automatic doors, I was forced open the door while my sister was taught to wait.
Some of those doors were extremely heavy and I did not like doing it at all. I think I complained nearly every time. I remember when a man tried to help me open a door to Sears that was not automated. My mother would not have it, and wanted me to do it myself. The old folks would just smile and my sister too. I felt as though everyone wanted to see me suffer. Well, at least when you are 5 years old, it seems like a lot of work!
It paid off though as I grew older. It became normal to open doors for girls at school and when out on dates. I cannot tell you how many times young ladies would say to me that they had never had anyone open the car door for them. We are talking women in their early twenties! I had thought every guy did this, but learned I was the exception not the norm. I found out many women were very impressed by what is but a minor act of kindness.
Yet, not all took well to it. Several times in college when I held the door open to enter the class room I was told, "I can get that. I am not helpless," by a women’s libber, but it still never deterred me from opening the door for them. I think in some sort of way they appreciated it, but did not want to acknowledge it. Today I still get the door everywhere my wife and I go. She says she still appreciates it though I admit if I am not quick, she will get out of the car so I have to keep on my toes!
So moms, make your young sons open the doors and teach your daughters to wait and say thank you. It will come naturally by the time they are in college.
Dave
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