This is the most accurate answer to the issue of the day… male machismo. Why is there a war in Ukraine? Because Putin is a man who needs to crave power and will kill anyone who denies him. Much like a man who beats his wife or girlfriend, it is an act so dehumanising and morally bankrupt that only a world (usually anchored by women) that can stop the chaos. I remember watching two fictional characters and wanting to grow up to be like them. Atticus Finch and Hawkeye Pierce ( Gregory Peck and Alan Alda recently ) played compassionate men who displayed courage in the face of defeats, in the courtroom or operating room in a MASH unit. That’s who I wanted to be like.
It is still my lifelong ambition.
I just wish there were more men like them in the real world and not just in the pages of a book or an episode on TV. Linda, I’ll say it again, you are the finest essayist on Medium.
Bravo.
Robert Pacilio
Former San Diego County Teacher of the Year
Author
Husband of 38 years
Father
And dog owner.
My website www.robertpacilio.net
Email Robertpacilio@gmail.com
I WOULD LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU SOMEDAY.