by Danny Eley | Aug 30, 2024 | Front Page, Manhood
In today’s political landscape, figures like Tim Walz’s vice-presidential candidacy and Doug Emhoff, Kamala Harris’ husband and the nation’s Second Gentleman, are being praised as modern examples of masculinity. But if you take a closer look, you’ll see that these men often reflect the same characteristics seen in the men of 90s sitcoms—amiable, supportive, yet lacking the strength, decisiveness, and leadership that define true manhood. This trend didn’t start today; it’s a continuation of how the media has conditioned us to view men in a certain light. Let’s explore how this conditioning has shaped our understanding of masculinity and why it falls short of what real manhood should represent.
The 90s Sitcom Male: The Goofy, Fake Authority Figure
In many sitcoms of the 90s, male characters were often portrayed as bumbling idiots—men who pretended to have authority but quickly crumbled when the real decision-maker, usually a woman, stepped in. These characters often embodied a fake sense of authority, masking their incompetence with bravado, only to reveal their true lack of capability when faced with real challenges. They were often the source of comic relief, but their portrayal as goofs with no real leadership qualities sent a damaging message about manhood.
This depiction wasn’t just about getting laughs; it conditioned viewers to see men as unreliable leaders, incapable of handling the pressures of family and life without falling apart. When the real boss entered the scene, these men shrank into the background, reinforcing the idea that they were neither needed nor capable of making important decisions. This portrayal undermined the concept of men as strong, responsible figures who could be relied upon to guide their families through tough times.
The Damage Done: Undermining True Masculinity
The damage from these portrayals is deeper than we might think. Young men growing up watching these shows were exposed to a version of masculinity that was both comical and pitiful—men who were meant to lead but were constantly undermined by their own ineptitude. This created a false narrative that being a man meant either being a joke or stepping aside for someone more capable to take charge.
However, true manhood involves more than just pretending to be in control. It’s about real leadership—embracing responsibility and understanding that the success or failure of the family often rides on the man’s shoulders, regardless of whether he is making every decision. While it’s important to recognize that not all decisions should be made by the man, and that a healthy partnership is built on mutual respect and shared responsibilities, it’s also crucial to understand the unique role that men play in the success of their families.
Partnership and Responsibility: The Balance of True Masculinity
Support and partnership are key components of a healthy relationship, but it’s essential that these elements are grounded in a clear understanding of roles and responsibilities. In a strong partnership, the man doesn’t always have to be the one making decisions, but he must be a reliable and capable leader when it counts. The idea that men should simply step back and let others take charge diminishes their role and ultimately weakens the foundation of the family.
A true partnership understands that both parties bring unique strengths to the table, and while the man may not make every decision, his presence as a strong, dependable figure is vital. The success or failure of a family often depends on the man’s ability to lead with integrity, strength, and compassion. When men are reduced to the role of the goofy, ineffective partner, the entire dynamic suffers, and the real responsibilities that come with manhood are undermined.
Reclaiming Masculinity: Moving Beyond the Stereotypes
As we reflect on how media has shaped our understanding of masculinity, it’s clear that it’s time to move beyond these outdated stereotypes. True manhood isn’t about pretending to be in charge or playing the fool; it’s about embracing the responsibilities that come with being a man. This includes being a supportive partner, but also stepping up when leadership is required and understanding that your role in the family’s success is crucial.
We need to challenge the narratives that have conditioned us to accept a watered-down version of masculinity and instead strive to embody the full spectrum of masculine virtues. This means embracing courage, integrity, and leadership, while also being emotionally balanced and supportive.
Let’s look for role models who demonstrate these virtues, whether in our personal lives or in the media we consume, and strive to be the best versions of ourselves. The next generation deserves better than the weak, go-along masculinity of sitcoms and the public figures who follow in their footsteps.
Challenge:
I challenge you to reconsider the media you consume and the male role models you look up to. Are these figures inspiring you to be strong, responsible, and decisive, or are they reinforcing a limited and passive view of manhood? It’s time to take control of your narrative and redefine what it means to be a man in today’s world. Don’t let the conditioning of the past dictate your future. Instead, embrace the qualities that make for true manhood and show the world what it really means to be a man.
ModernMasculinity, #TrueManhood, #RedefiningRoles, #MediaInfluence, #MaleRoleModels, #MasculinityMatters, #PoliticalMasculinity, #BecomingAMan, #Leadership, #MasculineVirtues
by Danny Eley | Oct 31, 2023 | Brotherhood, Faith, Fatherhood, Front Page, Growth, Integrity, Manhood
Inspired by “How to be a Man” by Dax feat. Darius Rucker
I find myself living in a world that’s teetering on the edge. There’s chaos in every headline—economic downturns, global unrest, and wars brewing on the horizon. But that external noise often drowns out the personal chaos many of us are wrestling with inside our own four walls. I feel this deeply. My role as the sole provider has never been more daunting, particularly as my wife has taken on the full-time job of raising our children. It’s a role I’m grateful she can fill, but it does add to the weight I’m carrying. And like many of you know, my mom’s been fighting cancer. I wouldn’t be anywhere else but here to support her, but the emotional and spiritual toll is real.
You know that feeling when you’re screaming inside but can’t let it out? Like you’re afraid to add your troubles to someone else’s plate? So you internalize it. That weight becomes a silent scream, heavy enough to crush your spirit but silent enough to go unnoticed.
This is when I lean on God. For me, God isn’t a far-off concept; He’s a real, tangible source of strength. When I’m grappling with the fear and uncertainty that life throws my way, my faith provides solace. It’s not just about knowing God is there; it’s about feeling His presence, especially in those moments when everything else feels unstable.
But let’s make something clear: faith isn’t a solitary journey. I believe in the power of community, of brotherhood. While it’s true we men often feel we have to go it alone, the truth is, we’re stronger together. We have to share our struggles, lend a shoulder, and sometimes even be the shoulder to lean on. It’s not just for our benefit, but for our children, too. I want my sons to grow up understanding that their dad could weather the storm because he wasn’t too proud to seek help, both divine and earthly.
I want them to see that their dad relied on a strong community and an even stronger God to get through the trials life invariably throws our way. The road might be rocky, but if we keep our feet steady and our hearts open, we can navigate through anything. We don’t have to be islands, silently suffering while life’s storms rage around us. We can be anchors for each other, rooted in faith and fortified by brotherhood.
#StrengthInStruggle #UnspokenManhood #FaithAndBrotherhood #NavigatingChaos #SoleProvider #SilentScream #LeanOnGod #StrongerTogether #WeatherTheStorm #RootedInFaith
by Danny Eley | Jul 20, 2023 | Front Page, Manhood
Growing up isn’t a one-time event. It’s a continuous and evolving journey, and one of the most significant transitions a male undergoes is the shift from boyhood to manhood. In the chaos of life and societal expectations, this path can often be obscured and daunting. The hard truth is, becoming a man goes beyond physical maturity. It’s about emotional growth, mental resilience, and forging your moral compass. It’s about learning the true meaning of responsibility, accountability, and respect, not just for others, but for oneself too.
The Road Less Traveled: Recognizing the Journey Ahead
One can’t transform overnight. The metamorphosis from boyhood to manhood is a path laid with trials, triumphs, and lots of learning. It’s a journey where your virtues will be tested and your resilience will be challenged. Society may have painted a glamorous image of manhood with raw strength, grit, and power, but true manhood is much more nuanced. It’s about demonstrating respect, showing vulnerability, understanding emotions, and not shying away from expressing them.
- Embrace Emotional Maturity: In a world that often equates masculinity with stoicism, breaking away from this stereotype requires courage. Emotions aren’t a sign of weakness; they’re a reflection of your humanity. Real men do feel, and they aren’t afraid to show it. Whether it’s tears of joy or of sorrow, allowing yourself to truly feel and express your emotions is an indicator of emotional maturity. It’s about acknowledging your feelings, understanding them, and expressing them in a healthy and respectful manner. It’s about breaking the shackles of outdated machismo and realizing that strength isn’t about suppressing emotions, but embracing them.
- Acknowledge Responsibility: One of the most significant milestones on the road to manhood is the ability to take responsibility. This means not only taking charge of your actions but also owning up to their consequences. It’s about understanding that every decision you make, every action you take has repercussions that you must stand up to. Whether it’s a mistake you’ve made or a success you’ve earned, taking responsibility is a sign of growing maturity and integrity.
- Respect Others: Respect is a two-way street. If you wish to be respected, you must learn to respect others first. This means treating everyone, regardless of their background, beliefs, or status, with kindness and understanding. It’s about valuing other people’s rights, feelings, and ideas. Every person you meet has their own story, their own struggles, and their own dreams. Recognizing and respecting this is a vital step towards true manhood.
- Self-Care and Health: Manhood isn’t just about mental and emotional growth. Taking care of your physical health is equally important. Regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and adequate sleep are critical components of overall well-being. These habits will not only keep you in good health but also instill discipline and dedication, traits that are integral to your growth as a man.
- Foster Patience and Understanding: Life is a journey, not a sprint. It’s filled with ups and downs, victories and losses, triumphs and mistakes. Understanding that it’s okay to falter, that it’s okay to not have all the answers is a sign of growth. Be patient with yourself and with others. Remember, the path to manhood isn’t about perfection; it’s about growth and learning.
- Find Your Passion: Lastly, part of growing up is discovering who you are and what you’re passionate about. This passion, this drive could be the very thing that gives your life direction and purpose. It could be anything from art to business, from sports to science. Find what sets your soul on fire, and embrace it. Your passion could become your roadmap, guiding you on your journey to manhood.
The Final Ascent: Claiming Your Manhood
The shift from boyhood to manhood is a journey filled with challenges and discoveries. Embracing these steps won’t necessarily make the journey easier, but it will definitely make it more rewarding. Remember, becoming a man isn’t a destination; it’s a continuous journey of growth, learning, and self-discovery.
Crossing the threshold from boyhood to manhood isn’t marked by a grand ceremony or an age milestone. It’s a personal journey, unique to every individual. It’s a journey where you grow, evolve, and transform at your own pace. The most significant marker of this transition is perhaps when you start embodying the traits of responsibility, respect, and emotional maturity, when you start living by your virtues and standing by your principles.
The shift from boyhood to manhood can be a turbulent, uncertain journey, but with the right guidance and perseverance, it is a rewarding and transformative one. Remember, becoming a man isn’t about fitting into society’s rigid boxes. It’s about becoming the best version of yourself, standing tall in your truth, and leading a life of respect, responsibility, and love.
#Manhood #Maturity #Responsibility #Respect #Health #Patience #Understanding #Passion #Growth #BoyhoodToManhood
by Danny Eley | Jul 14, 2023 | Brotherhood, Faith, Fatherhood, Front Page, Leadership, Manhood, Respect
“Sound of Freedom” is more than a film. It’s a slap across the face. It’s not a popcorn movie for your Friday night, it’s a hard-hitting truth that grabs you by the collar and screams to be heard.
I tell you what, there’s a reason why some want to keep this movie under wraps. This film, it’s causing an uproar. A real shake-up in the lofty places of Hollywood. They’re throwing around labels – conspiracy theory, white supremacist propaganda, whatnot. They want to put this movie in a box, tape it up, and shove it under a stack of other forgotten boxes. You know why? Because “Sound of Freedom” unearths the gruesome underbelly of child trafficking that they don’t want you to see. Because it breaks the status quo they’ve worked hard to maintain.
But this ain’t about conspiracy theories or political propaganda. No sir. It’s about the horrendous reality of children, kids like yours and mine, being sold into slavery like meat at a market. It’s about men like Tim Ballard and operation underground railroad, who are risking it all to wrench these innocent souls from the jaws of this monstrous trade.
It digs deep into child trafficking – a hideous truth we often conveniently shut our eyes to. But my friends, we can’t play blind anymore. The film mirrors the true journey of Tim, a man who willingly stepped away from his safe job to pluck a little girl from this abyss. The lengths he goes to, the risks he takes, they will shake you to your core.
The performances? My Goodness, they’re riveting. Especially the kids. It’s as if they weren’t acting at all. It was so real, so raw, it felt like a punch straight to the gut, a punch that still aches.
I won’t lie, this film broke me. I cried in the theater, on my way home, even woke up in the dead of night with this film burning in my thoughts. There was this scene where a son reunites with his father, and the way that boy hugged his dad, man, it’s the same way my own boy hugs me. It hit too close to home, it hurt.
“Sound of Freedom” is not merely a movie. It’s a battle cry against the horrifying nightmare of child trafficking. It’s a plea for humanity, for change. It’s a voice for those silenced by fear and exploitation. This isn’t a movie for the faint-hearted. It’s raw, real, and disturbing.
“Sound of Freedom” is a story that needs to be told, needs to be heard, needs to be felt. It needs you, it needs us, to pay attention.
Watch it. Let it rock you, like it rocked me. Let it make you angry, let it make you sad, let it stir something within you. And then, let’s stir the world. Don’t let anyone dissuade you with labels and slander. Let your own eyes, your own heart, be the judge. And then, let’s take a stand.
by Danny Eley | Jul 4, 2023 | Brotherhood, Faith, Fatherhood, Fitness, Front Page, Growth, Integrity, Leadership, Manhood, Respect, Success
The Dawn of Freedom
Freedom – a powerful word that echoes through the annals of American history, underpinning the nation’s ethos and aspirations. The seed sown by the Founding Fathers blossomed over time, nurtured by the relentless struggle, sacrifice, and steely resolve of the people. From the bold declaration of independence to the abolition of slavery and beyond, freedom has been America’s guiding star, lighting its path towards progress.
Yet, the landscape of liberty is ever-changing, its horizons expanding with each new dawn. It remains our responsibility, as stewards of this great nation, to carry forward the torch of freedom, illuminating our path towards a more equitable and just future.
The Stations of Liberty: Charting America’s Freedom Path
Independence Declared: A Nation Born Free
The first station in our journey lies in the distant past, with the courageous declaration that marked the birth of a free nation. It was a bold affirmation of inherent human rights, and a testament to the power of collective will and action.
Emancipation Proclaimed: A People Unchained
The next significant milestone came with the courageous decision to end the inhumane practice of slavery. This proclamation signaled a profound shift, embodying the nation’s commitment to expanding freedom’s reach and ensuring its blessings for all its inhabitants.
Into the Modern Era: Freedom Redefined
As we move towards the present day, we observe how the concept of freedom has evolved to encompass an array of rights and privileges. It now signifies the liberty to express oneself, the right to equal opportunities, and the pursuit of personal and collective dreams.
The Beacon of Freedom: Envisioning Tomorrow’s America
And now, fellow Americans, it’s your turn to steer the ship of freedom. Your responsibility is to ensure that the beacon of liberty shines brighter, illuminating not only the American shores but also serving as a guide for nations across the world.
Continue to challenge injustices, advocate for equality, and foster inclusivity. Celebrate diversity, respect differing viewpoints, and protect the freedom to dream and aspire. Remember, each of you is a guardian of American freedom – a custodian of the legacy that began with our Founding Fathers and continued through generations.
May the spirit of freedom inspire your journey, just as it has inspired the journey of this great nation, from its dawn to the present day.
#BecomingAMan, #AmericanFreedom, #Liberty, #History, #Future, #FoundingFathers, #Abolition, #ModernEra, #Equality, #Inclusivity
by Danny Eley | Jul 3, 2023 | Manhood
The Winds of Decision
Life’s journey, especially for a young man, is akin to a ship sailing the high seas. Decisions made at the helm can shape the voyage’s trajectory and determine the port of call. In this sea of possibilities, responsible decision-making emerges as a vital compass guiding young men through their journey towards mature manhood.
Every choice has consequences, some immediate and others lingering. When you’re standing at the crossroads of life, decision-making might seem overwhelming. It’s like being the captain of your ship in a storm, where the sea swells in turmoil and gusts threaten to steer you off course. Yet, the ability to make sound decisions amidst life’s tempests is a hallmark of manhood. It requires strength, courage, integrity, and above all, responsibility.
Charting the Course: Steps Towards Responsible Decision-Making
First Port: Self-Awareness
The compass of responsible decision-making is calibrated through self-awareness. It involves understanding your strengths, acknowledging your weaknesses, and knowing your values. This self-awareness forms the North Star guiding your choices, always reminding you of who you are and who you want to become.
Second Port: Gather Your Crew
No man is an island, and no decision is made in a vacuum. Surrounding yourself with a reliable and supportive ‘crew’ is paramount. These can be trusted friends, family members, or mentors who provide different perspectives, challenge your biases, and foster your growth.
Third Port: Weighing the Anchor
Making responsible decisions involves considering potential consequences and alternatives. It’s like weighing anchor – contemplating the pros and cons before you set sail. Remember, even inaction is a decision that can have significant implications.
The Horizon Beyond: Your Next Voyage
Now, young navigators, comes your challenge. As you grow and make your way through life, you’ll face countless decisions. Each one will be an opportunity to shape your destiny and define your journey towards manhood. In making these choices, remember the ports you’ve charted today.
Stay true to yourself. Listen to your trusted crew. Weigh the implications of your choices. And above all, be courageous, for it takes true bravery to make responsible decisions in the face of uncertainty.
The call of the sea is strong, and your ship awaits. So, take the helm, trust your compass, and sail towards the horizon of responsible decision-making.
#BecomingAMan, #DecisionMaking, #ResponsibleChoices, #SelfAwareness, #Manhood, #PersonalGrowth, #LifeCrossroads, #Courage, #Integrity, #JourneyToManhood
