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It’s no secret that in our modern world, many men are grappling with the concept of “masculinity.” Over the years, our idea of masculinity has evolved, and in many ways, has gotten better as terms such as “toxic masculinity” have become commonplace.
Everyone knows about toxic masculinity these days. We all know that men can have a tendency to be overly aggressive, dominant, and bullying – but where does this leave the good men?
In this article, I would like to gleam some knowledge from great men of the past, who accomplished many great things… and I think we can all learn a thing or two from these quotes.
1. On Having Values
“A man’s got to have a code, a creed to live by, no matter his job.”
-John Wayne
This timeless quote, by John Wayne, offers us a glimpse into what it means to be a man, especially in the modern age. As Alexander Hamilton once said, “He who stands for nothing, will fall for anything,” and I propose that this is truer now than ever.
In a tumultuous world, where everything seems to be changing faster by the day, it’s important to remember why you’re here. In times of great change, our morals and ideas of the world are often challenged, and without a strong code to live by, you might just lose your purpose.
2. On Facing Controversy
“The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.”
-Martin Luther King Jr.
Spoken by one of the most influential activists for racial equality of all time, these words sound true even today, despite all the progress we’ve made. The true merit of a human being is not to be found in times of comfort, but in times of challenge.
Every single day, we’re challenged by the modern world. Our political climate seems to grow more and more tense each day, as we’re faced with more scandals than ever.
Despite this, it’s times like these where great men are forged. Without struggle, one cannot develop his character, so in many ways, facing controversy is a gift; a chance to change.
3. On Doing What You Must
“A man does what he must – in spite of personal consequences, in spite of obstacles and dangers and pressures – and that is the basis of all human morality.”
-Winston Churchill
In one of the best masculine quotes of all time, Winston Churchill states that the basis of human morality is that you do what you must, regardless of the obstacles.
Morality is something that withstands the pressures of the outside world, for again, if you have nothing to stand for, you will fall for anything. A man who compromises on his morals doesn’t have morals at all – that’s the point. A good man does what is good, regardless of obstacles
4. On Boys vs. Men
“Manhood is the defeat of childhood narcissism.”
-David Gilmore
A society needs strong men, who can protect it in times of danger. This requires men to acknowledge that they must serve a purpose greater than themselves.
Strong men let go of their childish views, that they are the center of the world, and that they have something to prove. They accept that their duty and obligation is to make the world a better place, and to uplift those around them.
5. On Raising Decent Men
“We make men without chests and expect of them virtue and enterprise. We laugh at honor and are shocked to find traitors in our midst. We castrate and bid the geldings be fruitful.”
-C.S. Lewis
Much of our society praises negative traits in young boys, rather than positive traits. As C.S. Lewis says, we make men without chests, and expect of them virtue and enterprise.
While his language may be slightly outdated, his words still ring true – when we raise young boys without courage, we will have grown men who lack virtue. Without virtues such as humility, gratitude, and service, a man is no man at all.
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This content is sponsored by Jon Anthony.
Photo: Shutterstock