I'll Make a Man Out of You

If you grew up during the early 2000s, chances are you've watched Disney's film Mulan at some point. One of the most iconic songs from the film is "I'll Make a Man Out of You."

As I've grown into adulthood, I've struggled with not feeling "manly" enough. However, as a young man, I've come to discover that authentic masculinity is so much more than arbitrary societal norms. In my opinion, there's more to being a man than following what society considers to be a masculine aesthetic, and masculinity is not defined by arbitrary whims.

Think of society's stereotype of masculinity. Men to be stoic, muscular, athletic, alpha males whose lives revolve around the accumulation money and women. Guys who don't fit the mold are the "losers", and the "real men" are the guys with the macho-attitude. Creative or intellectual pursuits, such as music or art, are sometimes seen as more "feminine."

In my opinion, this is a false image of what a "real" man looks like, and is even a perversion of masculinity. I definitely don't fit into that alpha-male mold. I have emotional sensitivity, I am not the most athletic person out there, and I am not overly aggressive. Instead of spending time chasing after women or getting into a fight, I'll develop my creative talents or spend time acquiring new knowledge on some subject (I must admit, I love reading!). Does that mean that I am not a real man? Nope!

I've found that the best model for living authentic masculinity is Jesus Christ, Who is true God and true Man. I must confess that I don't always follow in His footsteps, but don't they say that a saint is merely a sinner who keeps trying?

Jesus was a man of conviction. He was a man of integrity, and wasn't afraid to speak the truth. He was a man of courage, and called out those who plotted against him. He was a man who was reverent towards the Father, and drove out the money changers from the Temple.

We know from Scripture that He had emotional sensitivity since He wept when His friend Lazarus died.We know that He had creative talents since He grew up helping Joseph, who was a humble carpenter.

Jesus was a man of heroic virtue. Everything He did was motivated by love. Being God, He humbled himself and lived a life of service to others. Take a moment to appreciate the gravity of such a powerful Being serving those who should be serving Him. Furthermore, He gave every last ounce of Himself by willingly choosing to sacrifice His life and endure unfathomable torment.

This kind of virtue and self-sacrifice is something totally antithetical to the culture of machismo, which is self-centered and even a touch hedonistic.

From an analysis of the life of Christ, us guys can learn what it means to be a "real" man. Forget the stereotype of the macho alpha male. Instead, strive to live a life of virtue. Don't be afraid to feel emotions which are totally natural and human. Don't ever be afraid to use your God-given gifts and talents because they may not be seen as "manly." Put the needs of others in front of your own. But most importantly, strive to love God. Be a saint on earth, because that is what it means to be a man my friends.

Geo

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