Boy Lessons

16 Lessons Every Boy Should Learn

1. Women are not objects – Treat every female with respect, not as a possession.

2. Fists aren’t solutions – Violence never solves problems; communication does.

3. Happiness isn’t bought – True contentment doesn’t come from money or power.

4. Force isn’t manliness – Real strength comes from patience, not aggression.

5. Respect goes further – More than flowers or gifts, respect is what builds lasting relationships.

6. Trust your gut – Your instincts are powerful; listen to them, they’ll save you more often than not.

7. Never outgrow “Mom” – No matter your age, calling your mother “Mom” or “Mama” shows love. “You” is for friends.

8. Dress the part – Sometimes, neat clothes can be the difference between a “yes” or a “no.”

9. Success has many keys – Whether it’s in sports, art, music, or writing, each passion has its own door to unlock.

10. Choose role models wisely – Bright lights can blind you to red flags. Be careful who you admire.

11. Stay curious – Every corner holds a story; always be open to learning.

12. Earn it, don’t expect it – No one is entitled to what they want. You work hard for what you have and pray for what you need.

13. Kneel before God – When you know how to humble yourself before God, you’ll have the strength to stand up to anyone.

14. Own your choices – Your friends won’t be held responsible for your actions. Think before you act.

15. Choose humility over arrogance – Running with the popular crowd teaches arrogance; sitting with everyday people teaches humility, and humility will take you further.

16. Take God with you – Don’t go anywhere or do anything you wouldn’t want to invite your Heavenly Father to. He’s your ultimate protector.

Wounded male child

“… the wounded child inside many males is a boy who, when he first spoke his truths, was silenced by paternal sadism, by a patriarchal world that did not want him to claim his true feelings.

The wounded child inside many females is a girl who was taught from early childhood that she must become something other than herself, deny her true feelings, in order to attract and please others.

When men and women punish each other for truth telling, we reinforce the notion that lies are better. To be loving we willingly hear the other’s truth, and most important, we affirm the value of truth telling.

Lies may make people feel better, but they do not help them to know love”.

~ Bell Hooks, All About Love

Art | Alisa Borhan