Anyone who keeps his cool in trying situations and is mild, loving, kind, considerate and sweet to others is called a gentleman. To be thoroughly gentle is a rare virtue that all admire but only a few possess. A true gentleman is like the moon amongst the countless stars.
Can any one forget how it impresses all with its serene appearance and soothing and pleasing light? A gentleman is never violent, or aggressive, or overbearing. According to Cardinal Newman “a gentleman is one who never inflicts pain on others.”
He never hurts anyone by words, or actions; gestures or even silence. (Yes, silence can sometimes hurt.) A true gentleman has genuine respect or consideration for his fellow-beings. It as born out of his deep-rooted belief that everyone has self-respect and that it should be preserved under any type of circumstances, whatsoever.
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His regard or consideration for others is exhibited in his behavior towards others. To his seniors he is always respectful without being servile. And his equals find him sweet and polite without being pretentious. He is reasonably kind and considerate to his juniors without showing favour or bias to anyone.
A gentleman’s attitude towards his subordinates or inferiors and his treatment of them is his real test. He does not need to shout or yell at them, for he commands willing and automatic respect. It comes without his asking for it.
He never bullies those who can’t resist. Nor does he exploit the weak or the helpless, for he knows that it is an act of cowardice. He is a source of great support and encouragement for those around him. He is brave and daring to the core and willingly runs to help women, children, the weak and the elderly.
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A true gentleman is always frank and open-minded. He, therefore, never takes sides. He has no tongue or ears for backbiting or gossip. He is known for being upright and straightforward. For him, all other people around him are gentlemen like him. A true gentleman is greatly careful of his health and physique and hence his liking for games and sports.
He is always fair to everybody and never thinks of taking unfair advantage. He is never mean or unfair, even when the things do not move according to the plan. Success never turns his head, failure never makes him lose his heart, or give up the battle for good.
He is always cheerful under all circumstances and looks to the bright side of life. If he fails, he says, “Fail I alone in words or deeds; while all man strive and who succeeds?” He always sees a ray of bright hope through the darkness of occasional setbacks.
He is immensely courteous and polite in his bearing and behaviour. He is humble to the core. He never speaks of himself except when compelled. He is graceful without being snobbish. He is strong-willed and firm in determination without being arrogant. “Propriety of manners and consideration for others are the two main hallmarks of a gentleman,” according to Disraeli.