I’ve been told I have an intimidating presence.
My “special friend” used to say it all the time.
I get it. I’m built strong. I carry myself with confidence. I walk like a guy who can handle himself, because I can. I’ve been through storms that would break most people. I’ve worked jobs where I had to be the shield for others. I know how to protect. It’s second nature.
But underneath all that?
There’s a side of me people don’t expect.
The truth is, when I’m with a woman I love, I look forward to things that don’t get labeled “manly” anymore. I like pushing the cart while she shops, just being there. I love picking out flowers, not for any occasion, just to see her smile. I enjoy slow walks, quiet dinners, and simple nights on the couch watching family sitcoms like Home Improvement or Reba. I’d rather pray with her than prove I’m right. I’d rather read the Bible together than argue over who wins.
I’m still that tough guy, don’t get me wrong.
But when I love, I belong to that woman.
I protect her like a German Shepherd watching over his home, not because I’m possessive, but because I’ve chosen her, not just in body, but in spirit. Her pain becomes my pain. Her peace becomes my mission.
I tell her she is my priority, even if I know deep down I may not be hers. I still give everything I have, because that’s how I’m built. I don’t love halfway. I don’t offer a piece of myself. I go all in: body, soul, and loyalty that doesn’t flinch.
Some might call that weak.
But I think real strength shows up in the quiet things:
- In holding hands instead of holding grudges.
- In praying together instead of pretending to be bulletproof.
- In staying faithful even when you’re standing alone.
There’s nothing soft about that.
So if you’re out there, wondering if men like that still exist…
We do.
We’re not loud.
We’re not flashy.
But we’re watching the door, holding down the fort, and hoping for the woman strong enough to believe in love that doesn’t need to shout.
Scripture Reflection:
“Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her.”
— Ephesians 5:25 (NIV)
A Prayer for Those Who Love Deeply and Quietly
Lord, give strength to those who love in silence.
To the men who protect without recognition,
who stay loyal even when it hurts,
who choose gentleness when the world demands pride.
Remind them that You see what others overlook—
and that Your Son showed us what real love looks like:
sacrificial, faithful, and enduring.
Bless those who are waiting to be chosen,
and those who are choosing to love anyway.
Make us more like You.
Amen.
Troy P Zehnder 