I share this with you for three reasons: first, I haven't written anything on the blog for a while, and I thought that I would share this so that those of you who read or follow the blog will know why; second, because I am very proud of my sons and the paths that they have chosen; and third, because in light of recent events in our culture, I thought it an appropriate time to begin writing again and speaking to these issues. My sons are an example of what I am speaking about--real manhood.
First, let me state that I am NOT saying that you have to join the military or be able to handle a firearm to be a man. My sons, however, joined the armed forces for many reasons, but among them were these: to become men of honour, courage and commitment, who will defend the freedom that we enjoy here in the USA and Canada; to protect their families; to protect religious liberty; to defend the helpless, the weak, and those who are not able to defend themselves.
I mention honour, courage and commitment specifically as these are the main values that are instilled into recruits in the Marine Corps. Here is what is meant by these three values:
• HONOR - This is the bedrock of our character. It is the quality that empowers Marines to exemplify the ultimate in ethical and moral behavior: to never lie, cheat, or steal; to abide by an uncompromising code of integrity; to respect human dignity; and to have respect and concern for each other. It represents the maturity, dedication, trust, and dependability that commit Marines to act responsibly, be accountable for their actions, fulfill their obligations, and hold others accountable for their actions.
•COURAGE - The heart of our Core Values, courage is the mental, moral, and physical strength ingrained in Marines that sees them through the challenges of combat and the mastery of fear, and to do what is right, to adhere to a higher standard of personal conduct, to lead by example, and to make tough decisions under stress and pressure. It is the inner strength that enables a Marine to take that extra step.
• COMMITTMENT - This is the spirit of determination and dedication within members of a force of arms that leads to professionalism and mastery of the art of war. It promotes the highest order of discipline for unit and self and is the ingredient that instills dedication to Corps and country 24 hours a day, pride, concern for others, and an unrelenting determination to achieve a standard of excellence in every endeavor. Commitment is the value that establishes the Marine as the warrior and citizen others strive to emulate.
I believe that these values exemplify what it means, not only to be a Marine, but also what it means to be a man. These are the principles that characterize real manhood. In my own personal life, I strive to learn these principles of manhood and leadership, and to put them into practice in my life. I am not a Marine, or a soldier in the US or Canadian armed forces: but I AM a soldier in the Army of the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. My mission is a higher mission: to do the will of Him who created me, saved me and sent me. I have a GREAT Commission (Matthew 28:19-20), and I am a warrior in a war that has been raging for thousands of years. I am equipped with armour and weapons that were formed and shaped for me, and if I use them correctly, will guarantee my success in winning the battles in which I am engaged.(Ephesians 6:10-18)
What is real manhood? It is men who are not ashamed to be men, who do not apologize for the way that they were designed by their Creator to be the providers, the protectors and the caretakers of their families. Men uphold the highest standard of ethical and moral behaviour at all times; they show honour and respect to all others, regardless of age, race or gender; they are accountable for their actions at all times and hold other men accountable. Being a real man means always doing your best, striving for excellence in everything he does, and does not make excuses when he fails to do so. A real man seeks to honour God in every area of his life, bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ and the Scriptures (II Corinthians 10:5).
There are many other things that we could add to this discussion, and over the weeks and months and even years to follow, I am sure that there will be many who will do so. This is simply my "two-cents", for what its worth. There is so much more that I could say, or that should be said. If you would like to add to the discussion, feel free to do so in the comments. (keep in mind that I am the moderator of this blog, and any inappropriate comments, language or bullying of others will not be allowed.)
