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What does NAMEN Represent? A Story of Gentleness

19 Dec 2023 3:27 PM | Craig Norberg-Bohm (Administrator)

What does NAMEN Represent?  A Story of Gentleness

Imagine that Gentleness was the highest value of Manliness

A Story of Gentleness

Once upon a time in a small village nestled among rolling hills, there lived a wise and kind-hearted father named Samuel and his young son, Ethan. Samuel was known throughout the village for his unwavering commitment to gender equality and his belief that gentleness was a true sign of strength.

One sunny afternoon, as the golden rays of the sun painted the world with warmth, Samuel decided it was time to pass on his cherished values to Ethan. They embarked on a walk through the lush forest that bordered their village, a place where the echoes of nature's wisdom resonated.

"Father, why do you always say that gentleness is strength?" Ethan asked, his curious eyes reflecting his innocence.

Samuel smiled down at his son. "Well, Ethan, let me tell you a story to explain. Once, there was a mighty river that flowed through this forest, its currents powerful and unyielding. People feared the river's strength, for it could be wild and dangerous. But one day, the river met a gentle breeze."

Ethan's brow furrowed. "A breeze, Father? How can something so gentle affect something as strong as a river?"

Samuel nodded. "You see, Ethan, the gentle breeze did something remarkable. Instead of trying to overpower the river, it whispered to it. It said, 'Dear river, your strength is admirable, but have you ever tried being gentle?'"

Ethan looked intrigued. "What happened next, Father?"

"The river listened to the gentle breeze," Samuel continued. "It decided to slow down and meander gently, carrying life and tranquility to the forest. People could now drink from its waters, and animals found a peaceful place to drink. The river's gentleness became its strength, for it nourished and nurtured all living beings."

Ethan pondered his father's words as they continued their walk. "So, Father, you mean that being gentle can make a person strong too?"

"Yes, my dear," Samuel replied. "Just like the river, when you show kindness, compassion, and respect to others, you become strong in a different way. You create harmony and happiness, making the world a better place."

Ethan smiled, understanding the valuable lesson his father had taught him. "I want to be strong like the river, Father, and gentle like the breeze."

Samuel ruffled his son's hair with affection. "That's my boy. Remember, Ethan, true strength lies not in physical might but in the kindness and gentleness you show to others. By doing so, you can help create a world where everyone is treated equally and with respect."

As the sun began its descent behind the hills, father and son continued their walk, hand in hand. They knew that, together, they would carry the torch of gender equality and the power of gentleness into the future, leaving a legacy of love and compassion for generations to come.

And so, in that small village among the rolling hills, the wisdom of Samuel was passed down through the ages, a testament to the enduring strength of gentleness and the enduring legacy of a loving father and his son.



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