Values, class, and a good work ethic are becoming harder and harder to find these days. Sometimes I think if boys were to take a few pages from John Wayne’s book, that might not be the case. Here are six things that have stood out from The Duke:
1) Stand for something, or you’ll fall for anything: Unfortunately, we live in a world where values are discarded and fads are on a pedestal. Know your mind and be willing to stand up for what you believe in instead of tucking tail to run. If a man can’t stand up for himself, how is he supposed to stand up for those he loves?
2) There is no grey area when it comes to right and wrong: It will never be simple to stand up for what is right and good. That is why it’s crucial to have a level head, be able to discern what is right for yourself, and, of course, be prepared and able to stand up for it.
3) Answer the call that most simply wouldn’t: “Not my circus, not my monkeys” has become a motto of too many. You see something happening that rubs you the wrong way? Don’t turn a blind eye to it. Be the one that cares, be the one that helps, be the one that offers assistance when no one else will.
4) Just like others should be able to rely on you, you should be able to rely on yourself: You desire a thing. Get it now. Take control of the situation. Don’t wait for it to come to you while you relax. Be the spark. Be the one who is willing to put in the effort.
5) To be stoic is to be smart: Don’t announce all your moves, don’t announce any of them. The men that are regarded as worth listening to aren’t the ones yelling into the microphone. They’re the ones sitting quietly in the corner, ready and waiting, speaking only when needed. They don’t fill the air with useless chatter. Their words come only when necessary and always carry weight.
6) Know how to treat a lady: A man is only as good as the woman standing with him, so choose her wisely. Once you’ve chosen her, work to keep her. She should be your equal, your confidante, your companion, your friend, your accountability partner. This isn’t a position meant for your brother who was your first friend, your father you idolize, your mother you once answered to, or the eye-catching woman down the street.