If you were to describe what it means to be a man in one word, what would it be and why?
"I would say "Heart"...actually "Good Heart". Okay, that's two words I know, but at the very core, if a man doesn't have a good heart, then nothing else matters."
Word: Heart
Occupation: Computer IT Consultant
Age: 48
From: Kansas City, M
Do you wish you were more masculine? Why or why not?
"When I first came out. It was kinda hard for me to mesh being masculine with being gay. Because It was the way, I was brought up. All gay men were lisping, effeminate, and there was no way they could be considered masculine, but as I got older and as I have met more people and just with my life experiences, I have learned I am very secure with myself. I am happy with who I am you know; I guess I am somewhere on the spectrum of what I would consider masculine vs. feminine. I think I have a lot of both traits. I think it's very important to be well rounded and have traits that society would consider traditionally masculine, and traditionally feminine. You know, I don't give a flip now, I kinda assume every knows I am gay. I am a good person. Whether people like me or not it doesn't define me. You know I happen to be gay. I am Michael and I happen to be gay. You know that doesn't define me. I am also a volunteer, I love animals, I am all for the pet, dog, and cat rescue movement. I love traveling. I love camping, but I also have a very sensitive side. I don't really care to be any more masculine. So I guess to answer your question no I do not wish I am more masculine. I am finally at a place where I am good where I am at."
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When was a moment when you felt very masculine.
"There was a time many years ago when I was being picked on because I was gay and I stood up for myself. I told the other person to bully off. I was bullied all throughout high school and finally I had had enough. I was in my late twenties and was being picked on yet again....and I let him have it. I felt really good for being able to stand up for myself and not take the bull shit anymore. I guess it is important to be able to stand up for yourself. "
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Who is the manliest person you know and why?
"I would say, my dad. He has always been there for our family. He was never one to really express his feelings but I always knew that he loved me, even when I came out as gay."
