Monday, February 22, 2016

Being a "Man"

Yesterday I asked my husband Alex

"What does being a "Man" mean to you?"

his reply went something like this....

"A man is someone who knows his emotions and knows how to control them. A man is someone who can identify how they feel and remain connected with the people around him. A man is someone who prioritizes his family and himself. A man is someone who takes care of and prioritizes his wife. I want Ezykiel to know that I'm always there for him and I want to be both physically and emotionally available to our kids always. I never want them to feel ostrasized or like they need to handle anything all by themselves. I want them to know that I'm here and always will be. A man is someone who can choose to be happy with the life he has. A man is someone who remains appreciative and present."

I've asked Alex this question multiple times in the years we've been together and its amazing to think that when I asked him this question 5, 7, 9 or some odd years ago his reply held statements such as....

"Men don't cry. They work and they provide. Men don't show affection. When I have kids my kids will need to know whose boss and will be spanked. I don't need spoiled entitled kids. My kids will respect me. Fear is respect. Men should be the head of the household. "

Not sure what I'm sharing other than the fact that there's been an incredible amount of self growth in the last decade or so and the insane difference becoming a parent throw into ones perspective. Rather the amount of growth that occurs once parenting comes into play is monumental.