Gallantry
Somewhere between hitting puberty and my first pseudo-boyfriend, I have developed this awkwardness when it comes to guys demonstrating their gallantry to me. This afternoon as I rushed to Escaler Hall, it was already jam-packed with students wanting to attend the Market Market talk. All 500 (it’s a ball park number) seats were occupied and so I was only left with the option of sitting in the floor like a squatter. Then, a guy lucky enough to have grabbed a chair whispered to me that I can take his seat. I profusely refused his offer because I felt like such a bastard for usurping his seat just because he felt that it was proper. I think I even blushed, giggled and said that I couldn’t, but he kept on insisting. To make a short story even shorter, I took his seat and made small talk with him out of gratitude and a feeling that I have to entertain him.
My reluctance for guys to carry my stuff (like those guys in school where they carry their girlfriends “oh-so-heavy-only-a-napkin-would-fit bags” it’s shameful really!), open car doors, give me their seats and et cetera could be traced back to my pseudo-boyfriend (JR please take a bow). He emphatically told me that I have two able hands, use it. And so, it is with blithe that I went through my supposedly flirting years thinking that I should utilize my limbs, like a beast of burden that I am.
Anyway to Lee, the guy who graciously gave up his seat for me… wherever you are; thanks. You’re sweet, but honestly I just don’t know how to send off the proper reception.