Before addressing the Brett Kavanaugh part of this discussion, which is long overdue, I would like to begin by clarifying that this article is addressed to gentlemen and not simply all men. Yes, there is a difference and the difference is meaningful. All boys grow into men, but not all men grow into gentlemen. Notice the breakdown of the word: gentle-men. Though gentleness is not a trait that some men will readily embrace, I would argue that it is a virtue that men must embrace if we are to become whole. Gentleness does not imply weakness, in fact there is a power implied in the very concept. Gentleness is the choice we make deliberately in the face of other options.
What does it mean to be a gentleman?
Living into the role of gentleman means that we must both acknowledge and embrace our power and privilege. I know some men will cringe at the word privilege, but to deny it is also to deny our strength and our ability to operate to our full potential. I am a white male who was born in the richest country in the world. I also happen to live in Austin, one of the fastest growing cities in the world. For me to deny my privilege would be like me denying my zip code. It would be a lie and, moreover, it would be a shame…
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