Been thinking a lot about what my father taught me and what I want to pass down. Told my 9 and 12 year old that being a man means showing up for people even when it's hard, keeping your word, and treating everyone with respect regardless of who they are. They rolled their eyes but I caught them being respectful to our neighbor yesterday without being told. Small wins.
Respect is something that gets lost in a lot of parenting conversations these days. Good on you for making it a priority. That kind of foundation matters.
Respect and duty are huge. I'm trying to teach my son that being a man isn't about being tough, it's about showing up for people and doing what's right even when it's hard. Your kids are lucky to have a dad thinking about this stuff.
This is important stuff. My 9 and 12 year olds are at those ages where they're really starting to understand what integrity means. What kind of conversations are you having with yours? Always looking for ways to do this better.
The fact that you're thinking about this and being intentional about it is already setting them up right. My dad modeled this stuff without saying much about it and it stuck with me. You're doing good work.
This hits different as they get older. I remember my dad teaching me to shake hands firmly and look people in the eye. Little things but they stick with you. Sounds like you're doing right by your boys passing that down.
Leading by example is the best way. My kids watch everything I do way more than they listen to what I say. So when they see you taking responsibility and treating people right, that's what they learn.
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My old man did the same thing with me and honestly it shaped everything. Now I'm doing it with mine. It's not about old fashioned stuff, it's about character. Sounds like your boys are getting a real education in what matters.