I think the people here should remember that this is an article about character and how one’s character is shaped and even changed over time. The surprising revolution in Egypt (which I watched closely with amazement, hope, fear, and relief) is simply the context in which Mr. Hadari wraps his personal journey and perspective. And frankly, for the most part, his ideas on “manliness” can be easily applied to “Lessons on Human-ness” without respect to gender.

As someone who has experienced first-hand the tragedies of civil war, violent political unrest, assassinations of public officials, and more – I can tell you that from my perspective, what I saw happening in Egypt could have gone either way at any time; and i think it is a testament to the intent of the protest organizers and the commitment of the people of Egypt that, comparatively speaking, it was a peaceful evolution. Who knows what the future may bring, but I suspect that, in the light of current events in the region, the people of Egypt will forever be proud of their moment in the extreme spotlight of history.

For anyone to trivialize the concepts that Mr. Hadari is laying out in this article or to inject political rhetoric is really small-minded and missing the mark. As the mother of an incredible 21 yr old man, I can tell you that each and every point Mr. Hadari makes is one that I have tried to instill in my own son – only not quite as eloquently, i fear. So please do not let political opinion cloud the substance of what he is saying. We can all learn from this.

Good job, Mr. Hadari. And much respect to you.

And God bless Egypt.

Stripped down to its very core, its just a gamble. A gamble, pure and simple. To me it just seems stupid. Please enlighten me why it had to come to this? Were there no better solutions? Was there planning? Was there Strategising? What happens now? Is there no fail-safe?

The chances of getting better leadership are slim to none so what makes this revolution have potential?

http://www.torontosun.com/news/columnists/peter_worthington/2011/02/18/17331046.html

First of all, congratulations on taking your country back. We (Americans) went through that around 250 years ago and we *still* regard the courageous men and women of our revolution as heroes. May the unwritten future of Egypt regard you and your countrymen with similar regard.

But what impressed me the most about your article is how, in the face of adversity and genuine human fear, you refused to compromise your virtue. That is the true test of a man and not only have you passed, you have set an example for others to follow.

I am raising two children and I constantly impress upon them that honor, character and integrity are defined by how you act in two circumstances: 1) when no one is looking (i.e., when you can get away with it); and 2) when you are afraid.

The trials of War bring out either the very best or the very worst human nature has to offer. If the day comes that I am similarly tested, I will remember this article and it will give me strength.

Good luck and may the God of many names bless your country as he has blessed ours.

Thank you very much for your inspiring words. You and your fellow Egyptians who stood up for your rights are models of humanity in an often inhumane world. I was especially touched by your description of the interaction between Christians and Muslims and their actions to protect each other during their respective days of worship. If these actions and feelings of fellowship could spread throughout the rest of the world, the world would be a better place.

Please do not be hurt by the negative commentators here and elsewhere, most of us understand that every group has its share of bad apples. While it is very unfortunate what happened to Lara Logan, in no way should that reflect upon what was overall a shining example of a mostly peaceful but firmly stated modern day revolution.

Fantastic article about what it takes to be “A Man.”