In recent years, a strange idea has taken hold in our culture. The idea is that how a man presents himself does not matter. You’ve likely seen this displayed in public as some men, and even women, roam about clad in pajamas or house shoes. The question is why is this becoming so prevalent?
Perhaps some people believe clothing is superficial or that simple grooming is vanity. Others behave as if manners are outdated as they treat people with utter disrespect. To me, these attitudes are often attributed to the false notion that they are being their “authentic self.” This may be what they believe, but this argument misunderstands something fundamental about human nature.
Human beings are not disembodied minds floating through the world. We live and interact with others and how we do so matters. Every interaction we have with other people, whether in the home or in public, is shaped by how we carry ourselves.
How a man stands, how he dresses, how he greets others, and how he conducts himself all convey information about his discipline and his regard for others. This is not about vanity, it’s about self-respect and respect for others as we navigate the world.
