Do men need to become men again?

by Leander
(Polokwane)

Hello everyone

I have come up with an idea that I feel can make a large contribution to society. Obviously, sharing it in this forum means placing a lot of trust in the type of people becoming life coaches.

I have the idea that men are so brow beaten these days that they have no idea anymore what it means to be a man. A constant bombardment of equality, sexism, racism, demand for performance, criticism, institutional bullying, changing demographics and the underlying demand for them to still "provide", has led to a lot of frustration, insecurity and clashing of energies.

Please understand that this is not a rant against women's rights or women's contribution to society, but a way to get men to realize that they are not threatened by women and that both sexes must complement each other in contributing to society on an equal footing.

Men must realize that self expression is a right of every single person, not something that you "allow" somebody to do.

I am of the opinion that this frustration of traditional roles versus current development has led to the breaking up of homes, violence and abuse, lack of taking responsibility, depleted self worth and a general apathy.

Maybe this sounds harsh or contrite but that is the way I perceive it. Every newspaper you open, every article you read speaks about abuse, murder, mayhem and crime. All these atrocities are being committed right in front of us and nobody takes the responsibility for their actions or lack thereof.

Now here is my idea.

An internet site that empowers men to think of their traditional role in a proud and responsible way; re-affirming their role as providers, leaders, supporters to both women and children, proud of their achievements, consistent in their love and discipline, able to listen and give space to their wives' ambitions and development, guide their children on a fulfilling path to self expression, be proud of the work they are doing, express themselves in their chosen careers, handle stressful situations, de-personalize criticism, manage anger and frustration, etc., etc.

I would like to request a few ideas as I already have a rough outline for the course as well as an idea for a series of articles.

Do the aspirant lady coaches on the site want to give a few ideas, and their comments in particular, about this concept, especially from the female perspective? Would some of the male aspirant coaches like to give me an idea of what they see it means to 'be a man'?

Your comments and feedback would be highly appreciated
as I think we are all like minded in the contribution we wish to make in society.