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Map of a Healthy Man
start where you are
my value
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I find meaning in what I do and seek ways to give my unique gifts in the world
use what you have
my spirit
I do things to strengthen my spirit and leave alone those things that weaken it
mooditj marmun
my culture
I embrace my family, my community, my culture and my country
do what you can
my body
I have regular health check-ups and do what my body needs. I feel good when I eat right and exercise
breathe deeply
my order
I am organised. I have my home, my money and all my business sorted
Boy Thinking
I do things to be seen I want it all for me Power is for my benefit I am the centre of the universe I think I am immortal I am not concerned with the consequences of my actions I want a mother/father
Man Thinking
I do things that I believe in I share with my community Power is for the good of all I am just part of the universe I know I am mortal I am taking responsibility for my actions I want a relationship with a partner
The shift from boy to man psychology is not one that occurs naturally. Traditionally the elders from a community make sure the shift happens, otherwise there is a risk that a boy will just grow into a man’s body. If you are a man who knows he has not made these shifts fully, you are not alone. Many men from many of today’s cultures find themselves struggling to achieve a mature masculinity. Talk to good friends, join a men’s group, or talk to a counsellor.
Featured Men
The men featured in this book are all leaders in some special way. But each one of us leads. We do it every time we face our challenges ... and keep going. There are many, many Aboriginal men who deserve to be included here and we would all have benefitted from their wisdoms. But time and space dictated to the team bringing this book together and we are grateful to those men who were contactable and willing to contribute.
