The next generation saw the issues with eschewing traditional masculinity after the Emotional Man, and the pendulum swung the other way once more. The following generation of men, dubbed "Wonderful Men," gave the impression that they had it all.
They became all a woman could wish for and more when they married the best of the Sophisticated Man and the Emotional Man.
These men were workhorses who could create money at will and establish financial independence for their families. However, they put their family's prosperity ahead of their own egos, and faithfulness increased significantly. These guys have several qualities that a modern man would should be modeled after, but they also had flaws that prevented them from reaching the heights of brilliance.
The Marvelous Man's Strengths
It's true that the Wonderful Man was wonderful.
He maintained the work ethic of earlier generations while tempering his ambition with a deep love and devotion to his family. Like the Sophisticated Man, he didn't treat others like doormats, but he wasn't a doormat for the Emotional Man either.
He lived the American Dream to the "t" and radiated an almost flawless blend of the masculine and feminine. However, with further investigation, you discover that a significant component of the picture was absent from his life.
The Marvelous Man's Weakness
In spite of his familial values and business acumen, the Wonderful Man was not without a fatal defect.
He was no longer as fierce as the last Emotional Man. The Wonderful Man was no longer "weak," but he was also no longer connected to his primal self and had lost his fire. Life turned into a game where the goal was to accumulate as many "things" for his family and as much money as possible.
Automobiles, yachts, homes, and fancy silverware – these tangible belongings came to define a man’s value. He also developed a severe case of ego-driven comparison syndrome in his desperation to "keep up with the Joneses."
The Wonderful Man lost touch with himself even though he was in control of his family and finances. He failed to grow into a man or engage in interests and pursuits that offered him purpose. Rather, he transformed into a walking ATM who was happy to assist with household chores. He was compliant, deferential to authority, and devoid of the instinctive qualities that define a man.
As a result, the following generation had to relentlessly pursue money to prove their masculinity. The sad thing is that they no longer identify as men, regardless of how much wealth they accumulate. The best men are providers. They exude a serene presence that reassures others of order. They have strength. However, the Fantastic Man overlooked a fundamental aspect of being a man.One cannot buy strength. It is merited.
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