In modern American culture, there seems to be the common phrase of "chivalry is dead" floating around the mouths of women, teens, and others who closely observe the behavior of others when in a tight, or otherwise delicate situation. Well, the fact of the matter is, chivalry isn't something people are born with, much less developed on ones own accord without the help of someone or something who is looking out for their best interests. Often times, people can confuse the fact that being kind is one thing, but being genuine is the same thing, only in a different context. This isn't true. Kindness can come from the simple willingness to be selfless and be in the assistance of other people who need the aid of another person. However, being genuine is knowing that kindness is a habit, or a trait that defines them as a person, and not as a situational attitude.

Many people like to jump to conclusions simply because it's the natural thing to do. However, often times people seem to miss out on friendly opportunities for help. It's never a bad thing to say "no" to a person who is opening the door for you on the way out or sees that you are carrying one too many grocery bags up to your apartment, but many immediately jump to the conclusion that they should compensate those who help. Often times we kind of don't want to do that, whether it be that you're out of cold drinks in the fridge or you think the person might be some kind of a creep. The fact of the matter is anyone will open doors, pull chairs, and carry, not because the people are helpless or unable, but because they want to show that those who are receiving their assistance are valuable and worthy of respect. Almost all the time, that's what it is about. There of course is a rare chance that a gesture of kindness might not be genuine, but if someone is genuine about their kind act, then you can be assured that there are no foul intentions with the person performing whatever assistance they are offering.

There should be more kindness in the world, whether it is from a simple smile to a person in the back of the grocery shopping line, to pulling out a chair for a friend, or even to laying down your coat so that no one steps in a puddle on a rainy day (yeah, it's still a thing) should be accepted and not rejected. Because for a single moment, someone decided to dedicate a precious moment of their life to think about someone else other than themselves. It's genuine human kindness and it should be appreciated more.