An open letter to men

Dear Men

I am writing this letter on behalf of women and girls across the globe. From a tender age, we are taught how to be perfect wives and mothers. We are introduced to the art of home-making and care-giving. We receive training on the crafts of sewing and knitting, and are encouraged to be brilliant cooks so that our future families are well-fed.We are given countless lectures on how to do the laundry properly, iron and mend clothes to perfection, darn socks and sew on loose buttons.

As children, we are presented with dolls, which are meant to nurture our maternal instincts as well as provide practice for motherhood in the future. Our parents and society go to all this trouble to ensure that we are adequately prepared to be fantastic wives, mothers and daughters in law someday.

The question I would now like to pose to the men is: what is being done to equip the guys for manhood? Who teaches them what being a good husband and father is all about? How to love their wives and raise their kids? The odd pep-talk between drunken guys in a loud bar or strip-club certainly doesn't count.

Every young man needs a mentor to teach him a how to be a man, to listen to his fears and concerns without judging, to help him face the storms of life with confidence and dignity. The shocking truth is: mothers, sisters and girlfriends CAN NOT play that role. The word "role model" itself refers to someone who 'models' the role you aspire to play. Being a role model is a practical thing and not just a lot of talk.

What do women know about being a man? Masculinity and egos? What do we know about men's secret insecurities? Our advice is often based on assumption or derived from magazines and talk shows. It's high-time good, honest men rose up to the challenge of mentoring younger males.

I believe there is a father-shaped vacuum in every guy. Sadly, many guys lose their biological fathers for a variety of reasons - death, imprisonment,geographical distance etc. However, a caring Coach, big brother, uncle, Pastor or teacher can effectively provide the support and guidance which so many guys long for. Your encouragement can help someone become the man he was destined to be: a man of honour, integrity, excellence and valour. A man who will also inspire and uplift others after him. You can help change the world. The power is in your hands.

Lots of love

Women and girls around the world.