Parenting: Is chivalry actually fair?

April 6, 2012 (WPVI) -- I know I am completely capable of doing most things that the average man can do and I think men and women should be treated equally.

However, having said that, I like that my husband opens a door for me and stands to hold my chair when I sit at the table. It may seem a double standard to some, but I believe in chivalry.

I'm trying to teach my son to be courteous to everyone, and to treat women and elders with special respect and kindness. He is very eager to open the door for his sisters and I saying, "Ladies first". It's so adorable!

He recently told me he wants to be a lady, because it's not fair that no one holds the door for him! I can't really argue with him, perhaps life just isn't fair. Much like the Golden Rule, I explained if he treats girls especially nice, they will treat him kind too. I suppose that's as fair as you can get.

The World English Dictionary defines chivalry as, "The combination of qualities expected of an ideal knight, especially courage, honor, justice and a readiness to help the weak".

I think those are wonderful qualities to teach both our girls and our boys.

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