If you were to describe what it means to be a man in one word, what would it be and why?

"It's hard to pick one word to describe a man. As I thought about it, "Protector" was the first word to come to mind but I know I needed to pick a verb, an action word to describe what a man is. I'm reminded of my dad and how he was a protector, a guardian, a defender and advancer of what was good, true, and right for me and for others. A good man is a protector of love and truth. He protects what is good now and also actively protects and fosters the greater good to come." 

Word: Protecting
Occupation: Nurse
Age: 29
Location: Kansas City, MO