So... i've been getting to the point of "why do i even bother" these days.

Having been raised by a very traditional family, i was taught to endure abuse from women regardless of the severity. i was taught to treat them with kindness, a gentle touch, and respect.

Honestly i still feel that those life lessons are right and generally applicable regardless of gender.... but i'm getting to the point where it is starting to feel like "why even bother, if it isnt reciprocated?"

no matter what, i try to always have good manners- hold doors, elevators, pull out chairs, allow ladies through doors or elevators first, and so much more. i do it without any expectations of gratitude, or compensation- simply because it is the right thing to do.

The story

Today i was running late for work, and carrying a bunch of boxes with supplies for a presentation i was working on. on my way from the parking deck into the deck elevator lobby, i was following a woman through the doors - both of my hands obviously occupied. after she stepped through the door- what did she do? did she take a second and let me brace the door with my arm or foot? no she just lets it slam shut into my box, making me drop all of it, and then looks back at me like it was my fault.

So whatever, i brush it off and i pick my shit up, and open the door- and walk towards the open elevator. on this elevator there were three women, all standing near the door- to the extent of "hey all i have to do is raise my arm, and the doors wont close. and the doors start to close as i walk up to them, just too far to keep them from shutting with my box. not one of them hit the door open button, or raised their hands. they just kind of stared at me like "well your a man, you can wait for the next elevator". so i kicked my foot up and managed to stop the doors just in time. every single one of them gave me the stink face like "how fucking dare you delay my elevator trip by a few seconds". so we ride up four floors, me being infront of everyone, logically i should have gotten off first, but no- i stay true to my upbrining and hold the elevator door for them so they can get off first without the doors trying to close on them. Not a single thank you or anything- just more stink faces and duffel bag sized Purse checks (and not even an excuse me for slamming my stuff with those gigantic purses.)

i'm just starting to wonder why i even bother with manners towards women anymore.