Is That a Gentleman Over There?...

A fascinating response to all the loopla Donald Trump generated through his feud with Rosie O'Donnell raised a key fundamental question about the art of being a gentleman. Rabii Shmuley Boteach made two profound statements following this public feud that re-opened an area of truth that has been on my mind for some time- Are men being men anymore or is this a dead art? The Rabbi stated 'Indeed, Donald Trump represents a completely new paradigm in the evolution of male honor, with grave repercussions for those who aspire to be gentlemen' and 'Donald Trump has never outgrown his obsession for unbridled self-aggrandizement. Indeed, he has not evolved, but devolved. His narcissism and boastfulness scrape the skies just like his buildings. Enlightenment seems utterly beyond Trump, who continues to believe that self-glorification is life's only purpose.'
I went to the dictionary to define exactly what a gentleman is to have a starting point to reference this matter with intelligence. The definition states ' A well-mannered and considerate man with high standards of proper behavior'. The Rabbi states of Trumps public behaviour, that such monumental flaws would be no one's business but the subject himself. His point is that Trump's success-through-boastfulness has a negative effect on other men. The Rabbi further stated that 'ancient codes of honor dictated that a while a man should aspire to greatness, he should do so with a whisper. Let others speak of his feats of daring. A gentleman is not crass and is certainly not a braggart. Indeed, boasting of one's achievements undermines them, as it betrays insecurity rather than confidence, and weakness rather than strength.'
I believe, being a man myself, that this should be considered as a smart starting point of reference of a man's behaviour. To aspire for greatness, with class and a high degree of integrity, doing your work with diligence, not provoking and agitating others around you.
I have read most of Donald Trumps books. In 'The Art of The Deal' he stated something to the effect of; 'You look a bully straight in the eye and get him with all you got because they are really a coward'. I think his behaviour over this matter was the same- like a 'bully'. It suggests to me he that he really is the 'worried' one and is doing exactly what the Rabbi stated, acting from weakness rather than strength. At the same time I do not support Rosie's behaviour either. I believe she is displaying the same behaviour.
I believe there are a lot of gentleman and ladies in this world. I do agree with the Rabbi that the public display of bad behaviour sends wrong messages to the world.
I myself will choose to stand and on walk on proper behaviour and conduct. i hope when you see me from a distance you will say...'Is that a gentleman over there?'
Until the next weblog....