Discusses the nature of masculinity and explains the teachings of Christianity on the proper role of the man in marriage and family life

Man of Steel and Velvet: A Christian Approach to the Vital Part the Man Plays in Marital and Family Harmony

Politics & Social Sciences

Andelin, Aubrey

Social Sciences

Bantam]

Man of Steel and Velvet

Pacific Pr

This is a book which teaches men to be men. It helps the young, single man visualize the man he ought to be in full maturity. It provides the mature, married man with a pattern to consider for more effectiveness in his role as a husband and father. The teachings presented here are greatly needed, for in spite of the millions of men who make up our society, there are few role models from which men can pattern. 
It may seem presumptuous that I should declare there is a need for men to be men, for what man is there who doesn't think he is already a man. He was born male and has grown into manhood. Being a man is self-evident. In childhood he was proud to be a boy, and no one dared call him a sissy. Everything in his nature demands respect for the masculine in him. So fundamental is this that to suggest a loss of manliness is the greatest affront that can be made. Yet, the sad truth is that men, speaking generally, are no longer men. This becomes obvious when the average man is measured against the undeniable criteria I present in this book. 
American men received a stinging insult from British psychiatrist, Dr. Joshua Bierer, who described them as a bunch of weak-kneed, lily livered sissies. He originally thought women were at fault, declaring American women to be domineering. Before I thought the women wanted to rule the country. I changed that opinion. Women are compelled to take over, not fighting to take over, he continued, I thought the men who attended some seminars I spoke at with their wives would shoot me for my remarks, but instead they all agreed with me. It's still the fatherless society. The husbands are not husbands. All the women are crying out for a strong man, and he's just not there. 
Throughout our society we find men who are weak, spoiled, pampered, spineless, and lacking in moral, physical or mental strength. There are men who fail to take their position as head of the household, allowing women and children to push them around, not wishing to accept the responsibility which is rightfully their own. Some blatantly encourage their wives to assume this burden. Many of our so-called jokes center around the wife wearing the pants. Her husband is portrayed as a bungler, inept and incompetent to understand or control his family. 
To a great extent men have failed to assume the primary responsibility of providing bread for their tables. Women must come to the rescue. Every day millions of them leave their households to assist in earning the living. The working mother is more the rule than the exception. The deterioration and loss of effectiveness in so many homes is in great part a consequence of the neglect resulting from the mother deserting her post, a situation she often laments but can do nothing about. 
Lack of chivalry is apparent on every hand. Of necessity, women must take care of themselves. They change their own tires, wash the automobiles, mow the lawn, repair the furnace, paint the house and lift heavy objects. Where are the men waiting to offer masculine assistance? 
In addition to failing at home, men are failing to measure up in society. We are in a period of crisis where it is likely the great inheritances we enjoy from the labors and sacrifices of generations past may be lost. Freedom is in jeopardy. It is a time of turmoil, strife and numerous problems. Our only hope is for men to rise to their feet as real men. But where are the heroes of today? Where is the man who will proclaim, Give me liberty or give me death!? Where are men willing to sacrifice time and energy to rescue a dwindling society? 
The Need 
Our crucial times require men of strong minds, kind hearts, and willing hands, men who find joy in labor, men of courage, honor and strong opinions, clear minds and high goals, men who are not afraid of responsibility, men who are dedicated to a task and will surrender their selfish desires and pursuits to a life of service. These are men whose word can be depended upon. 
But along with this fiber of steel there must be a gentle nature. We need men who can appreciate the beauties of nature, men who love their families with passion and honor, men who adore womanhood, yet dislike weakness or coyness. We need men with compassion, sensitive to the needs of the less fortunate, men who are tender with their wives and children, men who have developed an ability to love. 
This book outlines the way to become such a man. It is the way to a man's greatest fulfillment. Fulfillment does not come, as many suppose, by recognition, honors, money, security, material goods or sex. Although these contribute greatly to his well-being, his greatest fulfillment comes in being a man. 
This goal is attainable, regardless of one's station in life. No one is shut out if he obeys definite and unfailing principles. One is not limited by restrictions which usually accompany so-called success. 
This book will teach you how to understand women, their feminine nature and peculiarities, and how to build a beautiful relationship and an enduring marriage. It will teach you how to stand at the head of your household, gaining the utmost respect from wife and children. It will teach you how to succeed as a man in your work, in your community, and in your duties as an integral part of society.

Self-Help

Relationships

Pacific Press

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