Post Theme: Favorite Scene from Shadows of Chivalry
If you asked me which scene in Shadows of Chivalry was my favorite scene, I wouldn’t hesitate. The thing is, I don’t know why this is my favorite scene. It signals a change in Matt and Kelly’s relationship. It also takes place on the edge of winter and at the door of spring, that season of hope that reminds us things will bloom again.
My favorite scene is when Matt and Kelly meet unexpectedly in the park. I love the silliness of Matt not being able to choose which sweetener to bring when he sees Kelly from the ChaiNook window. I love the silliness of him bringing her sweetener even though he bought her a sweetened drink. And, I love that she needs the sweetener even though it’s a sweetened drink because the drink didn’t get sweetened—because that’s just life.
I love their awkwardness juxtaposed with their comfort in each other’s presence and their genuine concern not just for the other’s wellbeing but also for their growth. Matt’s initial defensiveness that melts into honesty, vulnerability, and transformative action is something our world needs more of for sure. Kelly’s compassion, too, is a core component of chivalry. It meets one of the deepest needs in Matt’s life, though she had no way of knowing it.
Other Favorite Scenes
Other scenes would be definite runners up—Matt’s comforting hug at the bus stop, their lunch at the restaurant, Micah’s prayer at Puget Sound, the day Matt gets a nickname. But for some reason, the park scene is still my favorite.
What’s your favorite scene? Hop on over to the Shadows of Chivalry group and let me know. (Please try to avoid spoilers for people who may not have finished the book yet.)
And here’s a question for thought: How does compassion relate to chivalry? I’d love to hear your thoughts on this. Just drop me a note in the comments or post your thoughts in the Facebook group.
I look forward to the conversation!
