The modern man.

He is metrosexual. He cooks, he cleans, he does the laundry. All of these seem to be what is expected. However, my observation is these are what women expect. Just because he doesn't do any of the these things, doesn't mean he hasn't embraced change. Nowadays, the modern man goes to NCT meetings, and birthing groups. However, the main requirement in my opinion to be classed as a modern man is to be at the birth of your children.

Unless you will create more work for the staff as you may pass out, then you need to be there whether you like it or not. Ladies, take note. If you want a life where your husband shows no interest in the home or your kids, then give your fella a free pass and tell him It's ok to not be at the birth. The precedent has been set so you've only got yourselves to blame if he 'needs' to go down to the pub with his mates all the time. Of course, there are other factors, but this gives fuel to the fire. 

When we brought Isaac home from the hospital, my next door neighbour came and congratulated us. He asked if I was at the birth. When I said yes, he said he couldn't do it. This is completely unacceptable to me. Your partner has no choice in the matter, so I think It's only right that the man takes responsibility for his child and supports his wife/partner. It's also good for men as we feel pretty left out of the whole affair. Once the child is born, the man is often lowest in the food chain. So I feel it helps give us men a sense of purpose. I can hear women saying they don't want their man seeing them like that or making things worse. Well this is what a compromise and a relationship is about. Do you think we like all the little boxes you leave around the house? Or the tubes and creams in the bathroom? It can be quite difficult to bond with your child because you haven't carried them around for 9 months developing a relationship along the way. A lot of women report about an immense sense of love for their baby when they are born. I'll be honest. It took me a while before I felt the feeling of love for my Isaac. However, looking back, it started from the day he was born. Guess what, I wasn't alone and IT'S OK!

From my perspective, there are many things I have experienced in my son's life. His first step. His first word. They were special at the time but I've forgotten them now. What I will never forget was his birth. I would give anything to return to that moment and when I first held him with my wife. What makes it more special is the support you give to your wife and the rollercoaster of emotions during labour and the birth. So if you want to be a modern guy, be there with bells on. If your wife swears at you during labour, just smile and say, "yes, you're probably right. I am a ......."