Category: Manhood

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Men Need Real Friends

Men today, young and old, are in desperate need of real, true friendship. As boys, we had friends, but only talk about our common interests, how to blow things up and if we get super deep, the girls we like. Men need to communicate how they’re really doing in life with other men. Why? Because we need to know that we’re not the only ones that are struggling in life (and we all are in some area…).

I just returned from a great camping trip that I’m lucky is an annual requirement for my job. I gather together with men from around the Northwest that are in the same line of work that I’m in and are in the same season of life (late 20’s to mid-30’s, & mostly have children). We get real with each other about our jobs, our marriages, being a father, and how we’re doing taking care of the ones we love the most. Here’s some pictures of our camp (I got to do the cooking!):
I’ve heard some recent stories about some men who never communicated to anybody about losing their job recently – even to some of his best friends.
Why do you think it’s so hard for men to connect and communicate with other men?
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Responsibility & My First Gun.

My Grandpa was the first person (that I can remember) to give me a taste of true responsibility. My mother was horrified, and my father was proud when my grandpa gave me that first taste of responsibility. At 8 years old and dressed as a ninja, my grandfather handed me responsibility embodied – a single shot, .22 caliber, lever action rifle. Responsibility.

My father took me out to shoot it a few weeks later, and taught me how to be responsible with a gun and the lives of the people around me.
I still own that rifle today, and look forward to giving it to my son Howard when he is ready for real responsibility. That time won’t come when he has proven that he’s ready, nor when his mother thinks he’s ready. He’ll be ready when I chose to give him responsibility. As men, we need responsibility and to know we’re trusted with it.
When were you first given true responsibility?
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What I learned from my dad.

  • Try everything at least once (my dad encouraged me to at least try everything – every sport, music, etc.).
  • Invite your son / daughter to help you. Even though they might not know what you’re doing, they love to learn, and at least feel like they’re helping (I did).
  • Enjoy life.
  • Love your kids.
  • Discipline isn’t a bad thing, it’s necessary.
I’m thankful for my father, and my Father. I’ve learned so much from them both.

What did you learn from your dad?

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Purpose (of this blog).

This blog is dedicated to my personal thoughts, experiences and observations about transitioning from boyhood to manhood.

Thanks to my good, good friend Bobby for the picture that will headline this blog. Bobby is a true man that has inspired me in many areas of my life.

I hope to pique your interest, spark some thoughts, and entertain through my own mistakes. Join in on the conversation. Let’s help the next generation of male adults become true men.