Most men I know get very little affirmation in their lives. The same could no doubt be said for women. But women are pretty good about asking for it, letting you know they need a “good job!” or “way to go!” I know some men who have learned how to ask for that (from being around women). But those men are the minority. Most men find some way to suck it up and keep going, keep plodding along. Or they throw up their hands one day and walk away from it all, that “take this job and shove it” scene. Both of those responses can be harmful not only for the man, but for those he loves and cares for.

 Now I don't need somebody greeting me every morning with a YOU ARE THE GREATEST sign or anything. I really don’t. But once every so often, an indication that somebody sees what I’m doing and appreciates it would be more than welcome. However, we all know if you sit around waiting for that once-every-so-often, you may be waiting for a long, long time. 

 So I simply want to give you an “attaboy,” and say, “Thank you for what you do.”  Maybe you’re college student taking a full course load plus working as a barista on the weekends and you tutor grade school kids in the evenings. Maybe you’re a single dad raising a couple of daughters, and you’re nose-to-the-grindstone so those girls can go to cheerleading camp or wear Converse high tops. Maybe you’re a husband of wife and children and you’ve always been the breadwinner, and it looks as though that’s not going to change, and that’s alright with you, but its still a heavy burden to carry. Maybe you’re a grandfather who wasn’t always there for your son or daughter but you’re trying to do better with a grandson or granddaughter, so you’re figuring out stuff like Instagram and you’ve listened a few times to Chance the Rapper. I could go on and on, trying to list the many scenarios men find themselves in, scenarios that often offer zero affirmation.

 Here’s to you! The work you do, the effort you put forth, the sacrifices you make each and every day keep this world turning. It is many times a thankless job. Thanks for doing it anyway, and staying in the fight. We couldn’t do it without you. Seriously. Thank you!