What Happened to Men?

Have you ever wondered what happened to the men who used to be there and stand up for what is right and just with principled behavior and models for the boys who would become men? I do.

When I was a lad, my father, grandfather(s), and uncles were men who said what they meant, meant what they said, and took a stance against behavior that was not to be tolerated. Men who were both respected by their peers and feared by those who would oppose them. When I look around these days, I compare myself to those examples I had set for me — and try to emulate their righteous behavior and set a good example for my sons, and my stepson. What I see in other men of the same generation, or younger, troubles me.

The rugged men of yesteryear may have dwindled due to the civilization and societal progress we’ve shared as a nation, yet there is a lack of civility and principled stubbornness these days among many. I would go so far as to say that there are a number of males who do not even know the meaning of self-respect, and if they do know it they fail to show it. If they have any.

I was taught to be clean, have my hair combed, my clothes neat, clean shaven and my shoes clean. I even tuck in my shirt, though many others choose not to tuck these days. Many men do not even own a handkerchief — or know how to shave apparently. -What is it with guys wearing their pants down around their butt? Are they plumber’s helpers who didn’t get the job? (no offense to the plumbers out there)