I have yet to actually know a “real” man in my life. I thought I knew several. I was wrong. Don’t shoot the messenger. I’m not saying they’re not out there. I believe they are. I must attract the wooses. At least I’m hoping that’s it as I don’t like to believe there aren’t any out there.
What is a real man in my humble opinion? I’m so glad you asked.
A real man (short list):
1. Knows, loves, accepts and lives his life for God through Christ.
2. Places his wife/family right after God in his life.
3. Places the needs of his loved ones ABOVE his own wants and desires.
4. Protects those he loves and is responsible for ABOVE his own safety.
5. Provides in tandem or if necessary alone for those he loves and is responsible for.
6. Is faithful to God, Wife/Family, friends, country and community.
7. Plans for himself and for those he loves, not living in a vacuum.
8. Spends quality time with God, wife/family, friends.
9. Remains knowledgeable (OPSEC) about the world around him that he might better serve in his capacity as HEAD of the family.
10. Prepares himself and his household for the unexpected events that happen in everyone’s life and in the ever-changing and darkening world around us today. He is there to support and encourage those he loves.
This is obviously a short list. I continue to pray for those in my family and try to serve in my own capacity as an encourager, supporter, provider, preparer, wife (to my husband), mother and/or friend to the men in my life. It is what it is. Praying for a fallen world and God’s presence, a hedge of protection and overwhelming peace for those I love and care about. May it be so with you as well. God bless.
I think what you are describing is more of an “ideal man” than a “real man”. Real men are human, and humans all have shortcomings. Men also are only usually inspired to achieve their best self when they have a good and understanding woman supporting them, so expecting a fully mature and self sacrificing man “off the shelf” isn’t necessarily realistic, unless some other woman has already done the work of helping motivate the man to achieve that already.