A Crisis of Masculinity
Trump and his type are destroying young men with lies about manhood
In recent years, the definition of masculinity has been debated, often influenced by prominent figures and the social media ecosystem. One figure, Donald Trump, has projected an image of supposed masculinity characterized by loudness, anger, aggression, and confrontation. However, this portrayal does not align with the true essence of masculinity. As usual, Donald is dragging folks down with him for his ego. Real masculinity is not about being mean or fighting; it is about protecting the vulnerable, showing compassion, and supporting justice and freedom.
Donald Trump's public image often exemplifies a false version of masculinity that equates strength with aggression, dominance, and a lack of empathy. This view perpetuates the idea that being a "real man" means being tough, loud, and unyielding. They don’t seek to build the women in their lives up, they tear them down to prove they are still “on top.” While these traits may display a form of dark power, they lack the depth and authenticity of true masculine strength.
Real masculinity is rooted in the ability to protect and provide for others, especially those who are vulnerable. It is about using strength to safeguard rather than to intimidate. A truly masculine man is someone who stands up for those who cannot stand up for themselves, who uses his power to support and uplift others. This is why we see men in the military as masculine, because they are putting their lives on the line for others, not because they carry guns.
Compassion is a fundamental aspect of real masculinity. It involves understanding and sharing the feelings of others, and being moved by their suffering to take action. A man who exhibits real masculinity is empathetic and kind, showing love and care in his interactions. This is the kind of strength that fosters trust, respect, and deep connections with others.
Supporting Ukraine
One of the most poignant examples of real masculinity on the global stage today is the support for Ukraine in its struggle against Russian aggression. Standing with Ukraine is not about seeking conflict but about defending the principles of sovereignty, freedom, and human rights. It is about supporting a nation and its people in their fight for independence and dignity.
Supporting Ukraine embodies the essence of real masculinity in several ways:
Defending the Vulnerable: Ukraine is a nation facing a formidable adversary. Supporting Ukraine means standing up for a country that is fighting to protect its citizens and maintain its sovereignty.
Showing Compassion: The humanitarian crisis resulting from the conflict in Ukraine calls for compassion and aid. Real masculinity involves recognizing the suffering of the Ukrainian people and taking action to provide relief and support.
Promoting Justice: The invasion of Ukraine is a blatant violation of international law and human rights. Supporting Ukraine is a stand for justice, showing that real masculinity involves fighting not for power, but for what is right.
To redefine masculinity, we must move away from the stereotypes of anger and aggression. Real masculinity is about the quiet strength that comes from integrity, empathy, and a commitment to justice. It is about being a protector, a supporter, and a compassionate leader.
Men like President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine have shown the world what real masculinity looks like. Zelensky's leadership is characterized by resilience, courage, and an unwavering commitment to his people. His ability to inspire and mobilize others through compassion and determination is a testament to the power of true masculine strength.
Unfortunately, the kind of masculinity that Trump portrays, is not masculinity at all. It’s weakness, seeking to overcome internal fear with loud words. It’s a simplistic answer to a real issue, a confusion among young men and boys about what it means to be strong. Recently, the right wing twitter crowd has taken to attacking men who support Kamala as not masculine while begging for the approval and applause that they get by saying it. The weakness in these men begs them to be part of a group and protect themselves with large crowds of likeminded people, and they will follow a crowd into the voting booth. This isn’t strength, and it’s not masculine. Vote for who you please, but voting a certain way to prove your manhood points to a deeper hole in the heart. Sadly, this is doing real damage to young boys looking for their place in this world.
The crisis of masculinity is very real, and society would be wise to recognize and understand this. Showing young men what is really expected of strong people can go miles to counter the false definition. Young, angry, lost men can do real damage to this county. Men who understand their job, their role, and what is required of them, can help to ensure America remains the greatest nation on the planet.
There's a song by Dan Fogelberg, "Leader of the Band" which he wrote in honor of his father. My Dad (with my Mom, course) raised five children to be the best people they could be. There's one lyric that especially touches my heart:
'The leader of the band is tired and his eyes are growing old
But his blood runs through my instrument and his song is in my soul
My life has been a poor attempt to imitate the man
I'm just a living legacy to the leader of the band"
Good piece, Adam. I liked this part: "Real masculinity is not about being mean or fighting; it is about protecting the vulnerable, showing compassion, and supporting justice and freedom."
Reminds me of the four knightly virtues, as described in the medieval poem of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight:
Beneficence boundless
And brotherly love
A pure mind and manners that none can impair
And compassion, most precious.