I’m a fairly new reader who, like so many others, was referred to this blog by a good friend. All too often, my friend and I would feel as though something was fundamentally wrong with many of our fellow males, but we couldn’t quite articulate what it was. After reading your articles and the well-written comments many people have posted, it is a great comfort to know there are other like-minded gentlemen in the world who see the problems our society has. The simple fact this site exists at all is a huge sign of hope that we can start to turn things around.

As for what could be done in 2010, one possibility could be to explore more deeply some of the root causes of why masculinity in western society is in such a confused state—or, put differently, how we got to the mess we’re in today. Was it a failing of the post-WWII generation to pass on their knowledge? Did we lose our sense of honor in the decadence of the 1960s-70s? This would certainly be a massive (and likely debatable) topic—and perhaps too in-depth for a blog—but I would be curious to hear the theories other men have about this. Personally, I don’t see our current shortcomings as being the fault of women or the feminist movement per se, but rather something we allowed ourselves to sink into. Men weren’t attacked by women insomuch as men simply failed to be men—and I’m curious to learn why.

That being said, I’ll be happy reading pretty much whatever you two post. Best wishes for an excellent year!

Keep up the good work!

Its nice to know there are others who may appreciate wearing ties, reading literature, nurturing the children, and then lacing up the gloves and punching someone in the face.

Viva la Manhood
Talofa 2010

It hasn’t always been easy. Learning various sets of skills, both in the workplace and the world of roller derby, had its stressful moments. Among other things, AoM’s articles were there to inspire me along the way. Thanks to your website, I learned how I should carry myself to be the kind of person I wanted to be, how great men in history behaved…I even decided to get a real haircut for once! I was unstoppable the week after that haircut.

A few weeks ago, I spent the night at a friend’s after a Christmas party. I’ve met her dad before when I was helping them move to their new place and I ran into him in the morning as I was tending to the post-party mess. I reintroduced myself and he said something along the lines of “Of course I know who you are! It’s guys like you who make the world go round and who everyone should have the pleasure to know.” It’s one of the best compliments I’ve ever had and I know I owe a portion of that to AoM. So thanks, Brett and Kate! I look forward to what 2010 has in store for all of us.

One suggestion, though: Get a mobile version of the site set up! Sometimes, men need some manly advice on-the-go but the site isn’t always easy to view on an iPhone. Also, how about picking me for a giveaway prize once, hmm? I won’t tell!

1. Giveaways – Even though I did not win (yet), I am grateful to you for the chance to enter your manly contests.

2. Roundups – Your periodic roundups have been useful and interesting. The part of the roundup post that I really enjoy is the list of interesting posts from the community. (I generally have already seen the blog posts.)

Thanks again for running this blog! Keep up the manliness!

My favorites included your guides to shaving, picking a barber, the video tutorials on pocket squares, and how to make a bed like they do in the military.

This site is much needed, and I enjoy telling my friends about it.

Keep up the good work!