We look for quality in all of life – from our food and clothing to our work and relationships. We value those things that meet a standard of excellence. And this holds for us as men as well. What we’re made of matters.
A good steak is flavorful and juicy. And a good diamond is judged by its color, clarity, cut, and carat. While the criteria are different, we look for quality in both.
And there are standards of excellence for us as men as well. In part, these include responsibility, courage, and wisdom.
Responsibility
Life is not just about us. A mark of masculine maturity is using our strength to responsibly care for those around us – protecting, providing, and guiding in various ways.
The man who is only concerned about his own interests or merely making a name for himself is not a man of true quality.
A man of excellence is sensitive to and diligent about meeting the needs of his community.
Courage
Life is filled with danger and uncertainty that must be faced with courage.
Courage is not foolishly rushing ahead, nor is it cowardly holding back when we have the responsibility to step forward. Much harm is done both ways.
Courage is our willingness to face life wholeheartedly – offering all of ourselves, even when it’s risky and scary to do so.
Wisdom
Wisdom is needed to determine our best course of action in each moment.
For example, it takes wisdom to know how to care without becoming overly responsible and hindering the growth of others. And wisdom also teaches us how to be courageous without playing it safe or living foolheartedly.
A man of excellence is one who is guided by wisdom in every area of life.
While we seek quality elsewhere, we must also become men of quality ourselves.
We do this in part by considering what we’re made of – being responsible, courageous, and wise as we offer our masculine presence to the world around us.
Don’t settle for poor quality, especially within yourself. Offer the very best of yourself to your life and relationships.
