Lately, i've been giving a lot of thought about what it means to be a family man. I look around me and, sometimes, i get depressed: marriages and relationships are failing - people seems less happy with their private-love lives nowadays then during the time of our parents when marrying for life was a philosophy that actually meant something.
While i understand it takes two to tango, i can, however say that there are a few things that a man needs to do to fulfill his responsibilities as a father and husband; the definition of what is a "family man".
# To prioritise the family and loved ones first. No exceptions, in every circumstance. If this means a personal sacrifice of comfort (e.g. doing something for someone else at the cost of what you want to do for yourself) then so be it. The most important charateristic of a family man is selfless-ness. He can't be selfish.
# To be a diplomat. Diplomacy is a byword for "compromise" - a family man who keeps his family together is a master of this art.
# To be patient and loyal with the grace of a ballerina - i've always thought this saying to be true, "Patience is the measure of a man." A bit machoistic, but ultimately true. A patient husband and father, who can be patient without making others feel guilty, requires a certain grace and poise. Fortunately, with enough warning and presence of mind, this is something that can be learnt.
# Bold, courageous and inspiring - i've always believed we all, male or female, have roles in a family. The role of the father and husband, among other things, is to be a leader who can be bold and courageous in defending his family, and inspiring in building their lives. A father and a husband should be a leader.
Seriously, guys. Don't get married until you understand and accept these responsibilities. You'll save yourself and the people who matter to you a lot of heartache, pain and distress.
Leave a comment