As the Christmas lights shine and the new year approaches, we often find quiet moments to pause, reflect and think about what we have achieved and the people who have supported us. During this thanks giving season, conversations often revolve around family connections, kind gestures, and the joys of being together. Women and children are often focused on in these stories, and that’s important. However, alongside the music and celebrations, we should also remember the men who choose stability over disorder, understanding over pride, and being present over being absent.

This is not general praise of masculinity, absolution or a blind eye to the real damage some men have done. It’s sincere recognition of those individuals who have demonstrated to me and many others, that being a man can be a source of healing and stability.

Growing up, I saw this clearly in my own home. My father was not perfect; he had flaws like everyone else. But he was safe, kind, and completely reliable. He was a living example against the stories of neglect or violence I heard elsewhere. He taught me to recognize the difference and to expect better since I saw it every day. My brother also changed from a playful childhood rival who often annoyed me into a protective and loyal adult. I now deeply value his humor and support. Cousins, friends, colleagues, and others have confirmed this truth: good men are not rare exceptions; they are the ones who listen, guide, and care without seeking attention.

In a world quick to generalize, these personal examples remind me that masculinity isn’t inherently toxic; it’s what we make of it. Modern discussions often label manhood as “in crisis,” but maybe the real change needed is in how we define strength. It’s not about rigid control or emotional barriers; it’s about accountability, vulnerability, and caring for others. The men who embody this don’t seek attention. They attend school events, provide quiet support during tough times, mentor without wanting recognition, and grow through their own challenges.

As we wrap gifts and share meals this Christmas, let us show appreciation for the dads who cherish, the husbands who respect, the brothers who protect, and the friends who truly listen. Their quiet consistency supports families and communities. They deserve our thanks as we enter the new year.

Examples of Steady Manhood

To exemplify this idea, consider these remarkable men from around the world. Each one balances professional success with personal integrity. They come from different continents, including Africa, Europe, Asia, and America, and they work in various fields such as sports, medicine, entertainment, business, writing, and environmental advocacy. What brings them together is their commitment. They are fathers, husbands, professionals, and caring individuals. Their stories are not about being perfect, but about choosing to do good in complicated situations. They inspire us to see these qualities in the men around us.

Marcus Rashford (United Kingdom) – Advocacy Through Lived Experience
The Manchester United footballer currently on loan to FC Barcelona, is known not just for his athletic skills but also for using his personal experiences to help others. Growing up in a working-class family with food insecurity, Rashford faced challenges as a child that motivated him to support low-income families. In 2020, he led a successful campaign that pushed the UK government to extend free school meal vouchers during summer holidays. This change helped over 1.3 million children during the economic fallout of the pandemic. He later achieved more policy changes to ensure food support during school breaks.
In addition to his work on nutrition, Rashford is also dedicated to promoting literacy.
He has shared a million stories, judged poetry contests for kids with hearing impairments, and learned sign language. Rashford partnered with Macmillan Publishers to create a book club that aims to give vulnerable children access to reading. He also wrote a motivational children’s book called “You Are A Champion,” which won Book of the Year at the British Book Awards in 2022. As a young father, Rashford encourages a caring model of masculinity that supports his family and connects with a new generation. His various efforts show how success in sports can go hand in hand with social causes, making him a responsible role model and influencer in today’s world.

Dr. Denis Mukwege (Democratic Republic of Congo) – Healing in the Face of Horror
In the war-torn eastern Congo, where sexual violence targets women, Dr. Denis Mukwege is a symbol of restorative masculinity. He founded Panzi Hospital in 1999 and has treated over 30,000 survivors. He provides not just surgeries but also comprehensive care that includes psychological support, legal aid, and help with reintegration into society. Despite facing assassination attempts and exile, Mukwege, a devoted husband and father, continues his work with quiet courage. He received the Nobel Peace Prize in 2018 for his efforts to stop rape as a weapon of war. His approach redefines strength as compassion, showing that men can be healers in a damaged world. As a healer and family man, he shows how vulnerability in others can inspire protective action.

Abel Mutua (Kenya) – Storytelling with Emotional Depth
Kenyan storyteller Abel Mutua, known as “Mkurugenzi,” has captivated audiences through his productions and YouTube channel by blending humor with heartfelt stories. What truly sets him apart is his openness about family life. He has been married to Judy Nyawira for more than a decade. Mutua shares stories of growth, vulnerability, and even tears. He challenges the norms that expect men to be emotionally stoic. As a father to his daughter, he shows what it means to be present. He talks about topics like loss and healing to both educate and entertain. In a culture where men are often seen as distant, Mutua’s honesty as a husband, dad, and creator demonstrates that being emotionally available is a form of leadership. This enriches both his work and his home.

Satya Nadella (India/United States) – Empathy in Corporate Leadership
Satya Nadella became CEO of Microsoft in 2014, which marked a cultural change for the company. His secret weapon is empathy, shaped by his experience as a father. Raising a son with severe cerebral palsy taught Nadella to understand challenges from others’ perspectives. This understanding changed his leadership style. He created a more collaborative and innovative environment at Microsoft, focusing on humanity as well as profits. As a husband and father of three, Nadella’s personal life influences his work approach. His story connects Asia and America, demonstrating how family experiences can reshape business masculinity globally.

Ta-Nehisi Coates (United States), Truth-Telling Through Words
American writer Ta-Nehisi Coates addresses race, history, and accountability with clear honesty in his book “Between the World and Me,” written as a letter to his son. His works push readers to confront America’s racial legacies directly, mixing thoughtful analysis with deep emotion. As a father, Coates’s personal investment in these discussions highlights his dedication to justice. He serves as a strong example of masculine responsibility in literature.

Sir David Attenborough (United Kingdom) – Stewardship for Future Generations
For nearly seven decades, Sir David Attenborough has narrated the wonders of nature. He has changed from an entertainer to a strong advocate for fighting climate change and biodiversity loss. His documentaries inspire respect for the planet and show humanity as caretakers instead of conquerors. As a father and grandfather, Attenborough’s legacy is personal; he wants to protect the earth for future generations. His gentle persistence redefines strength as caring, which serves as a fitting model for environmental masculinity.

As Christmas gatherings happen and New Year’s resolutions begin, many men bear unspoken burdens. These include financial pressures, emotional expectations, and societal roles. They do not need to be perfect to gain our attention; their steady presence is enough. The uncles who guide, colleagues who mentor, and guardians who nurture are the unsung heroes.

This holiday season, let’s make room for gratitude. Raise a glass to the men who stay, who grow, and who heal. By doing this, we not only acknowledge them but also encourage the next generation to see strength and gentleness as partners. As we welcome the new year, the world benefits when healthier forms of masculinity thrive.

May we carry that forward.