The Modern Definition of a ‘Good Man’

It’s not as easy as it used to be…

Melissa Raise
5 min readJan 21, 2020

The definition of what a “good man” is, has probably changed a hundred times in the last 300 years. As I hear stories from my girlfriends, see the portrayals of adulterous men in movies and shows, and date as a single mom in 21st century, I am appalled at what’s accepted of male behavior these days.

I’ve realized recently that I’m quite old-fashioned. What I believe about dating and love is now out-dated. It seems like so many people around me are dating and/or sleeping with multiple people, cheating on their spouses and partners, hitting on people who are in a relationship, becoming polyamorous, using pornography on the side, or indulging in crushes outside of their relationship. Men I’ve ‘talked to’ on dating sites or over the phone have asked me for sexy pics, sent disrespectful messages, and have expected all kinds of things way too early. After two dates, one guy who seemed like a really ‘great guy’ told me over text that he expected sex soon, that he wouldn’t tolerate it if I wouldn’t put out. I was still trying to figure out if I was even attracted to him! Needless to say, I never spoke to him again. I believe that romantic love and intimacy should be between two people, after they know each other well enough to be turned on by more than just their looks. I believe that those two people…

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Melissa Raise
Melissa Raise

Written by Melissa Raise

Owner of Raise the Bar Wellness. Wellness Coach, CPT, LMT. Exploring a sober mom's journey from dysfunction...to wellness. Instagram @raisethebarwellness