You are on a path into manhood. There’s nothing easy about the path, the process, or the destination. Along this path, a transformation takes place. Along this path, something within you must give way so that something greater may take its place. St. Paul says it this way, “when I was a child I spoke like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child; but when I became a man, I put an end to my childish ways.”
I think Tolkien illustrates this path well, with the character of Frodo, in The Lord of the Rings. When we are introduced to him in the Shire, there is an innocence, and perhaps immaturity, about him. Life is easy in the Shire. Life is comfortable and familiar there. The transformation from boy to man begins the moment Frodo realizes that he must accept a path that will lead him out of comfort and into unknown danger.
This is what must be sacrificed in the life of anyone traveling the path from boyhood to manhood. It is the sacrifice of a carefree life in exchange for a life of responsibility; a life where your actions impact the lives of others, for better or for worse. A responsible man lives in such a way that the people in his care can experience that care can experience freedom and safety.
What can you do to prepare for that? After all, it’s unlikely someone is going to drop in your lap a ring that you will have to risk your life to destroy. I believe the answer is twofold: first, begin to develop an image of the man you want to become. How does he handle and present himself? Why is he worthy of respect? How does he improve the lives of the people around him? Second, begin a pattern of intentional service and sacrifice now. Learn to say no to small things in your life in order to develop the bigger things. Pray, fast, and give.
A effects of a good man are seen in the environment he fosters. A good man creates an environment of order, purpose, love, and safety. St. Joseph modeled this and is a true guide. Go to Joseph.
By the grace of God, develop these things within yourself and watch His light shine into the world around you.
