The Truth About Real Men

Anticipating the arrival of our new little one has brought about many conversations about life and the future. Through it all, I have grown to appreciate just how thankful I am to be facing all of the unknown with someone I love, trust, and admire. While he is by no means perfect, my husband has shown me time and time again what it really means to be a man--a true sketch of character that has manifested itself to me over the years.

1. Real men laugh.
   Real men aren't afraid to laugh at themselves. They don't take themselves too seriously, and they are comfortable with losing from time to time--even to a girl. :) They also don't take life too seriously. Real men recognize that life is meant to be lived and lived well.
2. Real men cry.
   This doesn't mean that they dissolve into a puddle of tears at the drop of a hat. Maybe they cry only at the important moments of life--maybe only once in their lifetime. But they recognize the importance of tears, and they don't belittle those who shed them. The few times that I have witnessed my husband cry have left an indelible impression in my mind and a greater glimpse of his true strength.
3. Real men show affection.
   Real men recognize the importance of human contact, and they are not afraid of it. Whether it's wrestling with the kids on the floor or holding his wife's hand in a crowd, a real man publicly proclaims, "We belong to each other." Real men also recognize the importance of not showing affection. Whether single or married, they are respectful of women and treat them as the sisters they are.
4. Real men use their words.
   
   My husband often jokes that men have three emotions:  "Hungry, tired, and angry." A real man uses his words to convey his frustration, rather than slamming doors, shutting down, or getting revenge. He knows how to biblically handle his anger. He also knows how much good a well-placed, heartfelt word can do. Like a coach seeking to inspire his team, he knows that those around him need to be built up in order to flourish and succeed. Every time Jordan tells me what a good wife or what a good mom I am, I can feel myself drinking up that reassurance, storing it up for the next time I fail or the next time I don't feel like doing what is right.
5. Real men play hard.
   
   Real men know that life isn't all about work. They take time to relax, to unwind, and to jump into the frivolity. They take time to really be with people 
6. Real men work hard.
   
   This is where I always feel like I can take a page from my husband's handbook. Jordan is simply one of the hardest workers I know. He can put in a long, back-breaking day, then go back for more the next day. He isn't afraid to get dirty or uncomfortable, and I know that he sees all of it as a way to provide for our family.
7. Real men have faith.
   
   Real men entrust their futures to a faithful Creator. Rather than being tossed about to and fro by what whatever comes along, they believe strongly in the truth and propel those around them to do the same. In our life together, it has been such an encouragement to hear my husband say that he believes we have a good marriage. It really wouldn't matter too much what I think if I didn't have the confidence that Jordan believes in us, too.
8. Real men serve others.
   
   Rather than seeking to enable their own cause, real men lay down their lives for those around them. When he marries, a real man recognizes that, from that day forward, his wife comes first. And when he holds his child in his arms for the very first time, he realizes that he has given up, oh, so many freedoms but that the rewards of giving his life for this little one will last a lifetime. He gives freely of his time to those around him, and no task is beneath him.
9. Real men are humble.
   
   Real men recognize their worthlessness. While they are pressured to do everything by their own strength, real men know that on their own, they can only accomplish that which will fade away. They see Christ's strength magnified in their weaknesses, and they rejoice in the chance to honor Him. They don't always have to be the best or the brightest but are content in being beloved and redeemed. They are broken by their sin and, rather than hiding it, are transparent enough to share their struggles and ask for help.
10. Real men look to (and look like) Jesus.
    
    People will fail. Fathers, brothers, husbands, sons...they all will disappoint in some way. But the one steadfast example of real manhood lies in the person of Jesus Christ. A man who honored women. A man who spent time with outcasts. A man who wasn't afraid to buck tradition. A man who served those who ought to be subservient to him. A man who faced temptation and fought it with the very Word of God. A man who laid down His rights and His desires. A man who chose to be obedient. A man who chose to take the hard path.
    
    A man who gave up His very life.