The Complexity of Relationships: Why Men Matter
- linda laroche
- Feb 8
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 20
Understanding the Miscommunication
You know the game Telephone? That’s where a secret or phrase is whispered from person to person around a table, only to return changed or completely different.
That’s exactly what I experienced when people read my blog post, Men & Women. They thought I was saying women don’t need men. I would never make such a backward statement.
Let me clarify. I remember at a party some years ago when a woman said to me, “I have my children, I have my house. What do I need a man for?” This thinking reflects a materialistic mindset. It suggests that men are mere commodities to be discarded—either a sperm donor or a house provider. This perspective overlooks the profound differences between male and female psyches. Men should embody a different mindset, standing on their own merits. The insistence on ignoring these differences sums up how men are being pushed into adopting a more feminine persona.
The Importance of Intimacy
What I meant by a materialistic mindset is that the woman was disconnected from her inner life, thoughts, and feelings. I believed she was making a gross error, but I kept quiet.
I believe people cop-out by choosing to be alone. Being alone doesn’t foster personal growth or evolution the way a relationship does. Nor does it provide intimacy. Note that intimacy isn’t purely about the sex act; that’s a limited view, often blind-sided by hormones. Intimacy offers emotional fulfillment, serving as a foundation for a long-lasting relationship. Without it, you’ll only skim the surface, tending to basic needs in a rudimentary union. Depending on your soul's growth, this can lead to an unfulfilling, repetitive, and boring existence.
I genuinely believe women can function better than men alone. However, my honest opinion is that women are better off with a man in their lives—provided he’s available, aware, and not lazy or controlling.
The Benefits of a Supportive Partner
Women with a supportive man often experience a better quality of life. This is due to increased feelings of physical and emotional safety, which can trigger bonding hormones like oxytocin. A committed, dependable partner provides companionship, shares life’s burdens, and offers a complementary, stable perspective that enhances long-term well-being.
Five Key Reasons Why Men Are Needed
I can think of five key reasons why men are essential:
Emotional and Physical Security: A present and attentive man creates a sense of safety, allowing a woman to feel comfortable and secure, enabling her to thrive.
Bonding and Connection: When feeling loved and protected, a woman's body releases oxytocin, promoting deep attachment and just plain fun!
Shared Life Management: Partners provide practical support, including help with daily tasks, shared financial responsibilities, and companionship. That’s appreciation.
Stability and Perspective: Men are wired differently. When they truly love, they bring a long-term, goal-oriented perspective to relationships, helping navigate life’s challenges.
Partnership and Support: A supportive man acts as a cooperative teammate in tackling life’s challenges. Wouldn’t you want an ally in your corner?
These are just some of the more obvious benefits. There are more. If you don’t feel this way as a woman, you might be with the wrong man or he may not have matured emotionally. But all is not lost; men are receptive to a woman’s voice when she uses it wisely. Give him a try; he just may surprise you!
Embracing the Journey of Connection
Relationships are complex, filled with nuances that can often be misunderstood. It’s essential to engage in open conversations about our needs and desires. By doing so, we can bridge the gaps that often lead to miscommunication.
In this journey, we must recognize that both men and women have unique contributions to make. The dance of intimacy, support, and growth is not one-sided. It requires effort from both partners to cultivate a fulfilling relationship.
This song may not be a complete compliment, but I heard it the other day in a dog video and laughed so hard. It felt just plain good!
I so agree with all that you stated above regarding the relationship between women and men. Each gender adds to our lives when both are mindful, present, helpful, and caring.