My son and daughter are fine examples of modern-day chivalry. They are normal kids (ages 5 and 7) and far from perfect, but sometimes their good behavior amazes me. When I can catch them being good, I always like to make note of it.

Last Saturday we made a trip to visit the kids’ great grandmother, who was recently admitted to a nursing home. Before we even got out of the car, we had a discussion about what to expect. I explained to them that the elderly residents are often confused and lonely, and in need of as much extra kindness as we can give them. My daughter recently became a Brownie scout, and she takes her vow very seriously: “On my honor, I will try to serve God and my country, to help people at all times, and to live by the Girl Scout Law.” She understood right away what she would need to do here.

To my amazement, the kids walked in confidently, smiled and made eye contact with the residents, and were utterly charming. When a tiny woman in a wheelchair held out her arms to them, they walked over and embraced her. I was shocked. Could these be the same kids who fight over what TV show to watch? We had a good afternoon with great grandmother, and the kids remained on their sweetest behavior. They brought smiles to many faces that day, for staff and residents both.

Chivalry lives, and it lives with no age restriction.

— Beth Atkins, Texas

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