A Man’s World #6: Be A Gentleman

The greatest gentleman I ever knew was a family member named Salvatore that passed away in 2017 at the age of 97 years old. He was part of the “Greatest Generation”. That’s what it’s actually called! They coined it that name based on the resiliency and patriotism of those in that generation. They went through the depression and the war. They went through a lot.

Salvatore was one of my greatest role models. Still is to this day. I spent a lot of time with him during my junior and senior year of high school. Years that are extremely important to the development of a young man. Salvatore was a man that would give me the shirt off his back. He was respectful to everyone. He always told the truth. He told you when something was right or wrong. He taught me how to treat a woman. He taught me that it’s important to be kind to people. He always told me to stay away from too much hard alcohol and too much red meat. He taught me what it means to be a man.

His wife passed away when she was 47 years old. He was about the same age at the time she passed. One time, my mother asked him. “Salvatore, how long were you married to Angelina?”. He said “What do you mean how long? I am still married to Angelina. She is my bride.” I will never forget that. That really stuck with me and still does to this day. That line alone defined for me what it means to really be a man.

He never saw another woman after his wife passed because he believed that they were still married.

I looked up to that man so much. I wish I got more years with him. I am grateful for the years that I did get. When I feel myself getting off of equilibrium I say to myself, “What would Sal do? What would Sal say?”.

I loved that man. I still love him. He was one of my greatest role models.

Here’s a list (not all inclusive, not in any particular order) that I believe makes someone a gentleman.

1. If you have the means to do it you make sure you support your family.

2. If you have the means to do it you make sure you support others.

3. When you are married or have a significant other your eyes are only on that person.

4. You open the door for your significant other when you are going out on a date.

5. You hold the door for the person behind you in line.

6. You tell everyone you encounter please, and thank you.

7. You look to solve problems for others, not add fuel to the fire.

8. You listen to others and don’t complain.

9. You take pride in your community.

10. You believe in your country and stand up for what is right and just.

11. You volunteer and help someone else out when you have the chance.

12. You lead with respect, honesty, and truthfulness.

13. You are a role model for younger people in your family.

14. You hold the hand of your significant other.

15. You protect those closest to you.

16. You speak up when someone is demeaning or belittling those you love.

17. You make choices to ensure those around you don’t suffer.

18. You give people hope and a chance.

19. You forgive people even when they have wronged you.

20. You talk about the uncomfortable things if you know it’s what those around you need.

Again, that list is not all encompassing but it encompasses a lot.

I hope you’re enjoying my blog. I will continue to be here. Thank you for reading.

Be well, stay young.