Archive | April, 2011

How to be a Gentleman

29 Apr

“I’m just such a gentleman
you should give it up for me
look at how I’m placing all my napkins and my cutlery” 

~ Drake

The last of a dying breed is a label often used to describe the gentleman. In today’s society, they’ve become obsolete. Men and women don’t treat each other like yesteryear and it’s disturbing. Divorce rates are testament to that fact.

Gentlemen have become relics amidst a sea of players, fake thugs and abusive men. The gentlemen that remain are consistently bombarded to assimilate.

When I talk to my people about their dating experiences, mostly plenty of fish endeavours, the stories are unbelievable. One guy actually left his date, my friend, downtown, by herself, mid date. Really?! That can’t be life.

Another dude drove out of State to “surprise” the girl he was talking to at work. Considering that it’s a three hour drive between States, she was definitely taken aback and not in a good way. To make matters worse, he was married and scolded his wife for confronting the girl he was dating. I mean, dude! What is your major malfunction? Is everyone crazy?

I came across this list and liked it immediately. Not all points apply to me, but I get the overall point. Enjoy the read and if you have any horror date stories, please share, I’ll be using them for a blog next month.

1.  Common sense is the new black, it always wins.

2.  Kindness goes a long way

3.  Never trust a man who wears an eye patch

4.  Fortune follows the ‘stache (think Remington Steele)

5.  Camouflage should only be worn in the presence of the animal you are hunting. Furthermore, hunting should only be done as a means of survival.

6. The line between confidence and arrogance is very thin. Always know where that line is.

7. The best suit is a tailored one.

8. The styles of tobacco.

9. You have two ears and one mouth for a reason.

10. Personal notes should always be hand written.

11. Never trust a politician. In fact, never trust anyone with that style of haircut.

12. Shut the computer and pick up a newspaper every once in a while.

13. Swagger is something you earn. It’s the whole speak softly big stick thing.

14. Never hesitate on how you want your steak done.

15. Never trust anyone with two first names.

16. The only styles of footwear you need.

17. Brunch and Brinner are acceptable meal choices. They should not be optional.

18. A gentleman is one who puts more into the world than he takes out.

19. Best. Shave. Ever.

20. There is nothing wrong with aging gracefully.

21. Watch location = left wrist

22. Education begins the gentleman, but reading, good company and reflection must finish him.

23. Learn from those who came before you.

24. Learn at least one piece of Art.

25. Living up to your own expectations can be the hardest part of life.

26. Items that don’t have to match = watch, belt, slacks, socks and shoes.

27. Whenever someone asks me if I want water with my Scotch, I say I’m thirsty, not dirty.

28. Opening the door for a lady is not optional, and will never go out of style. This means any door.

29. Just keep walking. This applies to almost everything in life.

30. You really do need to know when to hold ‘em and when to fold ‘em.

31. The road to becoming a gentleman begins with character and there’s plenty of potholes along the way.

32. Sometimes low self-esteem is earned. It’s the correct response if you are not trying your best.

33. Always provide correction in private and praise in public.

34. Cufflinks when appropriate are never optional.

35. Your style is defined by what makes you comfortable.

36. Your outlook on life defines how you react to those life changing moments.

37. Talent is God-given. Be humble. Fame is man-given. Be grateful. Conceit is self-given. Be careful.

38. The quality of your friends always matters more than the quantity. Don’t lose sight of this, make your Facebook cuts accordingly.

39. The fear of becoming a ‘has been’ keeps some people from becoming anything. Live everyday outside of your comfort zone.

40. Everyday people shape and influence your life. Find the right people and you’ll be a better person for it.

41. Ties are meant to compliment a wardrobe, it should never be the focal point.

42. Nothing beats a good hat, so long as it is removed indoors.

43. When you’re with someone you love, make sure in that moment they know that they’re the centre of your world.

44. Be honest in your opinion. Be gracious in your opinion. Be humble in your tone. Be thankful for what you’re given.

45. A good haircut is as therapeutic as a massage.

46. The gentleman isn’t afraid to be in love. In fact, he relishes in it.

47. Compliment others early and often. Praise never gets old and is always appreciated.

48. There is never a situation where socks and sandals are fashionable.

49. When you’re actively listening, prove it by looking into the eyes of the speaker.

50. Give consistently without keeping a tally. Whether it be your time, resources or knowledge, the rest will work itself out.

…In My Position

27 Apr

I hate gettin messages from you (from you)
Its like you know the perfect shit to say
f-cks up my whole day
thought that all these feelings went away  ~Drake

Hello! We’ve never met, but we share commonalities. I thought it a sign of good faith to help you and foreshadow some possible hiccups on your journey.

First, the path to wealth and riches is through her mind. She has an intellect that’s difficult to find. Knowledge is important to her, it should be for you.  Regale her with wisdom, whenever she’s blue.

When times are tough, she’ll turn to her mom. Don’t be dejected, she’ll divulge before long. Family is paramount and if you’re accepted, welcome to the team. You’re damn near Beckham.

Seeing you now, brings memories from the past. Inhale, exhale… this too shall pass. You’re playing my position, I’ve been to relegated to bench. She parlayed her talents and made a Lebron type decision.

I want you to know, that I was once you. I received all the passion and lovemaking too. Like all good things, sometimes they come to an end. Make wise choices and your membership will never suspend.

This has been a public service announcement to my doppelganger. I know you’re out there and I’m happy for you. You have plucked a rare Rose.

We’ll never meet, but you’re in for a great ride. Strap up, hold on and enjoy the slide. My position is mist and as thus, I’m disappearing.

It’s only fair that I’m not around, friend or otherwise, so that you may build your own bond… in my position.

C.D.Que

If I should have a daughter …

25 Apr
"Fathers, be good to your daughters
Daughters will love like you do
Girls become lovers who turn into mothers
So mothers, be good to your daughters too"

~ John Mayer

One day, I’ll have a child.  If she’s a girl, I don’t know what I’ll name her.  It may be something unique with some past meaning or it may be something bland.  She may be tall, she may be short.  She may be black, she may be another ethnicity.  She may be intuitive or she may be calculated.  She may be outgoing or she may be easy going.

She may be all of these things, but I can tell you what she will be.  She will be beautiful and caring and passionate and polite and my little girl.

This poem is from one of my favourite poets, she puts it down on the mic.  Digest her words, she’s got a voice and brain that attracts me in ways I can’t begin to describe.

Bonus:

Follow

Get every new post delivered to your Inbox.

Join 280 other followers