3 Words of Transformation Pt. 2 "Good"

The Second word is "Good" This word good is a good one isn't it.  Ask the question, "Is it good to be me?" I think this is what makes good such a foundational descriptor for men's groups. When we say to men "You are a good man" we are actually saying, you are good just the way you are right now and you don't have to hide from that". In AMG we make it known they are GOOD and will make good decisions from their goodness.  Some definitions of the word "good" are as follows: to be desired or approved-of.                 having the qualities required for a particular role.                     In AMG we have identified "Good" as the stage of maintenance.  Definition of Maintenance: It is the process of observing and preserving someone or something It is in this stage of maintenance we are open to being exactly as we are. We are accepted for who we are. We acknowledge our goodness in the presence of others.   This is the foundational experience of Authentic Men's Groups. Once a week for 90 minutes I am in a group of men that accept me for who I am. As I am vulnerable and authentic, I am accepted for my goodness.   This is a pivotal place to be. Centered, Calm and Curious. Learn from Should and invite change from my goodness of who or what I really want.  If I have made some bad decisions or have done some bad things I still am affirmed as a good man. I am in the ranks of "Good Men" who are making choices, some healthy some not so healthy. It is in a safe environment I can explore my choices and get some non-judgmental feedback.  When I hear that I am a good man I can begin to believe it When I believe it I can begin to say "I am a good man" When I begin to say, I Am a good man I begin to act on it. When I begin to act on being a good man, I make good decisions There is a proclamation that accompanies this stage of discovery:  In the first stage we said that the word "should" accompanies stage of discovery we ask the question, "Am I good?" In this second stage we say the word "good" that accompanies the stage of maintenance we are proclaiming, "I am good." I am valued and worthy of respect! I am accepted and worthy of grace! I am loved and worthy of love!  Healthy men make healthy decisions about healthy relationships.  As we move into the third word, I would like to recite another definition of the word good that will help us transition to the third word: 'Good' means a lack of self-centeredness. It means the ability to empathize with other people, to feel compassion for them, and to on occasion put their needs before your own. It means, if necessary, sacrificing your own well-being for the sake of others'.  If this word is given some contemplation, it can take us into the third word of transformation and that is the word "could".