We live in a world caught between two extremes. In one breath, we eschew and vilify masculinity and traditionally “manly” virtues, labeling them as “toxic” and detrimental to society. Yet in another, we revel in them. Subconsciously pining for a resurgence in traditional masculinity.

We are enamored with the classically masculine archetypes that proliferate our favorite movies, books, and TV shows (think Jon Snow, Don Draper, Hank Moody, and Captain America).

The blood in our veins rips at the sight of a vicious knockout in the UFC and, as we watch the victor leap to the top of the cage with his arms held high in the air, we can’t help but imagine ourselves standing in his place…the taste of blood on our lips, the deafening roar of the crowd filling our ears, and the inner confidence of knowing that we are capable of handling ourselves in conflict.

Yet all of our imagining does little to change the way we feel and show up in life.

Despite our desire to “be the man”, to feel strong, accomplished, and powerful…our desires are left unmet. We are not the hero of our lives so we allay our growing sense of emasculation by watching other hero’s through a steady stream of action movies, video games, and extreme sports.

The reason is simple…

Men today are lost. In the famous words of Bob Dylan, “The times, they are a-changing.” And modern men have failed to evolve with the changing times.

As feminism has given rise to unprecedented equality men are faced with a growing and inescapable sense of obsolescence.

Men aren’t needed in the way that we once were and, our seeming lack of utility has left men wondering, “What the hell am I supposed to do now?” We no longer have clear roles in society and men all over the world want to know how to be more masculine and even if it’s okay.

Women are graduating from college at higher rates than men, landing high-paying careers, able to provide for themselves easily without a man, are starting their own companies (some becoming self-made billionaires like Sarah Blakely and Kylie Jenner), and even running for President of the United States (Hilary Clinton, Elizabeth Warren and Kamala Harris).

These feats, unimaginable only a decade ago, are indeed good things. And this is in no way a call to regress to the “Good old days” of the past where a woman’s sole purpose was that of the dutiful housewife…

…Simply an acknowledgment that this unprecedented rise in equality and opportunity has created unforeseen and largely unaddressed problems for modern men.

Our physical strength once necessary to protect others from the hidden dangers of life on earth is no longer needed…

Our capacity as providers of resources and security is no longer needed…

Men are today more than ever before confused about what it means to be a man (let alone an attractive man) and what our role is in our rapidly changing society.

From a young age, we are told to be quiet, sit still, follow the rules, listen to mommy, obey the teacher and avoid any display of aggression, talking back or acts of “masculinity”. Not only are we not taught how to be a masculine man (or how to be masculine at all), but we are actively discouraged from seeking these answers for ourselves.

Doctors give us drugs for any minor symptoms which then sedate our lust for adventure and ability to create heroic lives. Teachers disparage us for our inability to sit still and pay attention and encourage us to fit in like the rest of the class, stick to the status quo, and avoid standing out. Parents tell us to “play it safe”, avoid taking risks, and “be grateful” for what is – a mundane and muted existence.

We live in a hyper-feminized world where feelings matter more than facts…where agreeableness is lauded and assertiveness is criticized…where comfort and safety are prioritized and courageous and uncommon action are seen as unnecessary and even childish risks that endanger the “common” way of life.

Throughout most of our lives, our very souls have been

Bro
the act of masculinity can`t be capture but it can be tamed and thats what the present world is doing to we men the system want and have been taming us right form when women came in but one thing they fail to know is that the act of masculinity is inbuilt its always there it just left to you if you want to awaking it from slumber.

PS: it has always been your choice.

OP, what is your definition of an "ideal man"?

Let us all return back to God. Only in Christ can we know our true purpose here on earth.

In Nigeria I blame the economy.

Nigerian Man will accept he is at fault? Lol He would rather blame whites, or women or his fellow Man. Little wonder they are where they are today, The first step in Change is Acceptance, how will A Nigerian Man change for better if he never takes responsibility for his actions? To top it all, an average Nigerian Man is very good at wailing and complaining while waiting for someone to change the situation for him.
Abeg I no fit laugh...

BTW this thread has been created since 10am only 3 comments, if it is a thread like : Ladies how does cramps feels? You will see 100 comments from Nl Guys who miraculously see their periods every month. Some will even share their mothers' experience join. Bunch of simple minded beings with misplaced priorities!

ecstasy357:
Let us all return back to God. Only in Christ can we know our true purpose here on earth.

Absolutely,

Redemption is only in Christ no other way.

The attack against masculinity and feminity started in the garden of Eden, it is only increasing especially in these last days.

#ILMOVON
#Attitude
#Bliv

You wrote trash..
Absolute trash to vilify men and amplify women..
You should be ashamed of the nonsense you wrote..