True Definition of a True Gentleman

I will state the traits, which I try to exemplify, which I consistently attempt to portray as a man, but I am undeniably guilty of failures of every aspect of the gentlemanly figure. In all that I do, I uphold the qualities I have stated with unbridled passion, yet who is to say that any has ever held them constant? The standard to which I hold myself is the same standard to which I hold everyone, for who would I be to elevate myself to a pillar of greater expectation than all people?

            As I said, true gentlemen have influence, for a true gentleman never finds himself without authority. It is with this influence that a gentleman can help others to become gentlemanly themselves. That is the greatest expectation I have for anyone, to act gentlemanly, to be as kind, compassionate, honest, giving, humble, and modest as they may. It is with these traits that I demonstrate; reveal through my influence, and hopefully are mirrored by that influence.

Cruelty is unnatural to me, and I find that it does not come easily, so I would say that I am not malicious in my honesty, and I speak honestly when it is necessary, but I do not wantonly point out faults, and then only do so in private. My propriety is shown through my respect for others and for myself, I do not purposefully insult, nor do I parade my propriety to others. When confronted with my accomplishments, I am appreciative, but try not to be conceited, whereas my punishments and failures serve to humble me, though I do not let them slow my successes. I follow that which I believe is right, and that which is iniquitous I abhor. I do not have much, save a comforting ear and perhaps some advice, and these things I give freely. I have been through troubled times myself and can easily sympathize with others, but I cannot tolerate self-depreciation or sloth. I am not an athlete, nor a scholar, nor am I unskilled in either.

I do not know what beliefs you hold as truths, but there is one that I hold; each one of the qualities of a true gentleman that I portray I do for one reason. I am Christian, and that is first and foremost in everything I do. If I find my definition of a true gentleman to be unchristian, than my definition shall change. You may see easily enough that the definition I have formed is most assuredly what most Christians also believe, for you see, a Christian must always be a gentleman, whereas a gentleman is not always a Christian.

Throughout the years of men being called gentlemen, the definition has changed, however, it has retained many of the same characteristics that have been found in history. A gentleman has always been honest, a gentleman as always been respectful, a gentleman has always been humble, and a gentleman has always been compassionate. Yet, you will find that most of all, a gentleman has been and always will be the embodiment of integrity.