When I was growing up, my father rarely set me down to explain “what a good man is.” He taught me through his actions. And when I started dating boys, he also told me things like, “Ronnie, a boy should come to the door when he’s picking you from the house…” Or, ” A young man shouldn’t ever treat you that way.”
My father’s example of manhood was so strong that it is ingrained deep within my spirit. It made it very hard for me to be at peace in a relationship with any man that didn’t live up to the standards that my father taught me. Sure, I’ve dated some characters in my time (to say it nicely.) But as I stated before, I wasn’t at peace in those relationship. Things weren’t right. I had something nagging at me and it was because of what my father taught me and what he showed me about being a good man.
The cover of one of my favorite Father’s Day cards by Hallmark Mahogany. It really captures what a good man is….
My father taught me that a good man provides for his family, no matter what. I can remember him working two jobs to provide for our family.
My father taught me that a good man sacrifices for his family.
My father taught me that a good man is not perfect, but he learns from his mistakes.
My father taught me that a good man sets a moral standard for his family. And as for our house, we served the Lord.,
My father taught me that a good man doesn’t leave his family when the going gets tough.
My father taught me how to recognize a good man. And because of my father’s example, I confidently said “Yes” when my husband proposed to me after 11 months of dating… because I wasn’t going to let that good man get away!!
Take some time to recognize and celebrate the good men in your life. Check out the wonderful line of Hallmark Mahogany Father’s Day cards that will help you provide a heartfelt expression of how much you truly appreciate the fathers in your life.
BMWK – what’s your definition of a good man? Please shout out the good men in your life, in the comment section below.
Disclosure: This is a sponsored post brought to you by Hallmark. I have partnered with them to spread the word about their Mahogany greeting cards. All opinions and stories are my own.
About the author
Ronnie Tyler wrote 444 articles on this blog.
Ronnie Tyler is the co-creator of BlackandMarriedWithKids.com and co-producer of the films Happily Ever After: A Positive Image of Black Marriage, You Saved Me, Men Ain't Boys and Still Standing. The proud mom of 4 has been selected by Parenting Magazine as a Must-Read Mom and is one of Babble's Top 100 Mom Bloggers.
