Reflections From a Country Girl

Ok, guys. I promised I would give equal time to men and their finer qualities after the recent reflection – “There’s Nothing Like a Dame.” I said at the end of that reflection that I would concentrate on what my thoughts were on men’s’ finer qualities the next day.

It was quickly drawn to my attention that it really would not quite be fair for a woman to share her perspective since she probably would not present a clear enough picture of men. It was further suggested that men should be given the opportunity to share those thoughts, so, I pondered that for awhile.

I was convinced it was a reasonable request. I had the perfect opportunity to “interview” a number of real men this weekend. I decided to ask the question “What are some of the finer qualities of a good man?” to a number of the guys.

Before I list these, I want to say that the answers came from a group of my cowboy friends.

These men are from all walks of life but since we all have aliases, I can’t be sure what any of them do – except to say that they all can shoot lever action rifles, double barrel shotguns and single action pistols with some amazing speed and accuracy. Plus, they look pretty dog gone good in their cowboy duds!

Edisto Ike said that, when it comes to marriage, dependability and loyalty are two fine qualities in a good man that one needs to strive for.

Black Jack Sequine explained that loyalty was critical in a good man. “You know, just like a loyal dog.” he said.

Captain Custis said “good men know how to drink in moderation and they also know how to open a door.”

Many women I know like that idea a lot.

Doc Krem said “good men have courage and conviction.” You have to know Doc. He also said men are a good source of natural gas.

Come to think of it, I suspect most of them are.

Doc Jones said honesty and dependability are two important qualities in a good man.

I love what Country Lawyer told me. He said there was really only two words a good man should be able to say. “Yes, honey.” “As long as a man has this in his vocabulary he will definitely be a good man in his woman’s eyes.”

I can hear “amen” coming from many women right about now.

Grey Dog said that 70% of men in this country are good men who can be depended on.

Whiskey Mac said that a good man knows how to appreciate a woman.

Three Leg Jake said he is reminded of the song that suggests a good man:

Always drink up stream from the herd.
Never looks up at a bird.
If he gets thrown off – always gets back on.
And NEVER squats with his spurs on.

Gambler Bill said a good man keeps his word.

Bullwhacker said that, early on in his life a man by the name of “Lassic” taught him that a good man lives by the Boy Scout code. He said he strives to live that way even today. He reminded me that the code says:

“On my honor, I will do my best
To do my duty to God and my country and to obey the Scout Law;
To help other people at all times;
To keep myself physically strong, mentally awake and morally straight.”

Gilbob Kid shared that a good man knows how to keep a secret.

Wolverine Rebel said a good man sets a good example for other men.

Ranger Law explained “Having been a man since I was a boy, several different things come to mind. The most important one is empathy. If a man can “walk in another persons’ shoes” he can step back and understand in a unique way. A good man knows how to have empathy for others.”

One of the most creative answer of the day goes to JP Hara when he said the following:

“A good man can brand a dozen head of cattle,
Patch up the fence,
And fix the shingles on the barn,
All before sun up,
AND have the coffee ready when his woman gets up.”

Now I LIKE that.

What woman wouldn’t?

Some of the cowgirls wanted a chance to respond as well so let me add a few of those here.

Klearwater Kate said – “They look nice coming and going and they’re good at fixin’ things.” She continued. “Good men know how to protect their women and their families.”

I’d have to agree.

Hambone Hannah said one of her husband’s finer qualities was consideration. “He’s the most considerate man I know.” she said.

If all men were like that, the world would be a better place.

This was some of the best conversations I’ve had with cowboys. I actually enjoyed it and we certainly had a chance to laugh and exchange some pleasantries in-between shooting.

So, for all the men out there that always wondered if women see you in a good light, I’d like to say that, if you have these qualities, consider yourself fortunate. You probably have many good things going on in your life with your relationships.

While we know none of you men are perfect, we women are encouraged that many of you see these as good solid qualities in a good man.

There’s hope of the world yet.

My wish for you today, women, is that you consider yourself very lucky of there’s a man in your life with these qualities and make darn sure you tell your man just how much you appreciate him. My wish today for you men who many be reading this is that you strive to have as many of the qualities listed here as possible. The women and families in your life will greatly appreciate it and your life will likely be one of love, laughter, and strength. If you don’t have a woman in your life right now and you have these qualities (and happen to be looking for a good woman like the one described in “There’s Nothing Like a Dame”) be patient – there are many good women out there looking for your kind of guy!

~ Joellen

This entry was posted on Monday, January 29th, 2007 at 1:34:pm and is filed under Friendship, Life & Events, Living Life to the Fullest, Relationships - Marriage, Relationships - Singles, Releationships - general, Teens. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.