Elements of a real man
Last week Monday was International Men's Day and it created quite a stir via social media. Fathers, brother, sons, boyfriends, and husbands alike, appeared to be disgruntled by the lacklustre recognition cast their way on what is deemed a remarkable day. Well, for this Men’s Edition, The Flair is here to say, “We see you and we salute all of you.”
In honouring the occasion, we turned to your rib, the fairer sex, and asked: what does being a real man mean to you? Here is what they had to say:
Being a real man means being honest, loyal, and respectable. He is honest with himself and others. This is as a result of the same respect he has for himself and others and then a real man is loyal/responsible. He is true to what he believes in and is loyal to his cause.
Rushelle Townsend, 32, Chef.
To me, being a real man means that you don't run from your responsibilities. You live up to your character as a man to provide for and protect your family and always put your best foot forward.
Deja Harris, 22, Veterinarian student.
I don't think there's a real definition for that. So I guess it would be a man who is authentically himself no matter what that looks like.
Shari Crooks, 27, Lawyer.
So, a real man, to me, is someone who protects the ones he loves, does his best to provide for his family even if it's not necessary, considerate, knows how to charm a lady and is respectful towards the women in his life. Guess I could go on but nobody's perfect and those are my top ideas of the attributes a real man should have.
Nicolina Diablo, 28, Photographer/Make-up Artist.
It means taking responsibility for your actions no matter what. It means taking care of your loved ones no matter what situation you are in. It means being a role model for society in whatever capacity you can.
Mishka Anderson, 28, Law Student.
The epitome of a real man is one who is spiritual. His main responsibility is to take care of his family. His mother first and foremost, then his wife and children. Protect and support his family in whatever way possible, be it financially or emotionally. His action precedes him even when he has nothing to say. Living an exemplary life so his son can follow.
Kerri-Ann Smith, 32,
Chef.
A real man is a man who's ambitious, sets goals for himself and makes every effort to take care of his family (if he has one) in every way possible.
Khalilah Mills, 30, Banker.
A real man is someone who is protective, responsible, affectionate, dependable and hard-working, which means the world to me because he's always there. I can count on him and he seems to just solve the problem or make things happen.
Shelly-Ann Sibblies, 31, Teacher.
A real man is a leader and true giver of himself for the good and overall benefit of those he loves. A real man is a provider of love, comfort and care and instills a level of confidence in his partner for her to be his anchor and pillow of strength. A real man is a builder of dreams, lives and provides pathways to unlock hidden potential.
Zanya Cruise, 30, Doctor.
A father, son, brother, husband: whichever title he may have, a real man is a protector, a provider and an encourager. He realises his responsibilities and doesn't shy away from them. He shows unconditional love through any situation. And there is no finger-pointing, just rational solutions.
Rochelle Hayles, 28, Sales in Nurse Education.
A real man for me is one who leads by example through action, knows his responsibilities and takes charge. He is the foundation on which the family is built and the safe place in times of trouble.
Shavelle Mayler, 27, Public Relations Practitioner.



