A True Ladies Man
Bill McGurn ·
Jan 28, 2011 at 7:17am
Now, as an employee of News Corporation, I have a vested interest in the success of "American Idol." Still, as the father of three young girls, I was wowed by one of this week's contestants. Chicago native Chris Medina was engaged to a beautiful young lady, Juliana, who suffered brain trauma in a car accident just two weeks before they were to be married. But he's still with Juliana, taking care of her. In an interview he said he asked himself a question too few men ask these days: “What kind of man would I be if I left when she needed me the most?”
- Comment (15)
- · Quote
- · UnfollowFollow (4)
Comments :
May '10
Re: A True Ladies Man
I hope he continues to stand by her. I hope he doesn't let Hollywood ruin him. If he stays faithful, this is the kind of hero we need in our society.
What else is there to say besides what he said? "What kind of guy would I be if I walked out when she needed me the most?"
I wish some of the deadbeat dads would ask themselves this, especially when they're responsible for their lady being in need (not to mention responsible for the very existence of their offspring).
I wish every married man would take his vows as seriously as this guy did-- before he's even officially made them. What kind of guy skips out on his wife when the road gets a little rocky? A wimp, that's who.
When the honeymoon is over, life happens, and we start asking, "Why isn't marriage the way I thought it would be?" it takes a true responsible man (and woman) to stick to it and make it work.
As the father of a young daughter myself (I hear where you're coming from), I'm glad there are still men like that in this world.
Edited on Jan 28, 2011 at 10:50amRe: A True Ladies Man
Way to make me start off the work day crying, Bill.
Jun '10
Re: A True Ladies Man
My tears spooked my wife when we were watching that the other night. What really got me was when Medina's fiance came in to meet the judges, and Steven Tyler gave her a real big hug. He leaned in close and told her, "He sings so good because he sings for you." That still chokes me up.
May '10
Re: A True Ladies Man
Agreed.
Re: A True Ladies Man
Sep '10
Re: A True Ladies Man
Needless to say, my girlfriend was balling her eyes out when we saw this segment on Wednesday. As for me, well, I just had a piece of dust in my eye..
The guy was really a talented singer, too. I hope he makes it to the fan voting. I've watched American Idol off and on for years, but never voted. If Chris makes it to the fan voting, i'll definitely vote this season.
May '10
Re: A True Ladies Man
Great guy. Great story. I still won't watch American Idol.
Jul '10
Re: A True Ladies Man
“What kind of man would I be if I left when she needed me the most?”
I bet there will be a song using that line coming soon.
Jun '10
Re: A True Ladies Man
I only watch American Idol through clips that are circulated after the fact.
This is a beautiful story. And the icing on the cake --- he has a fabulous voice. Maybe he'll win and his career success can help fund any care takers and rehab that she needs. And, of course, a lovely wedding.
Dec '10
Re: A True Ladies Man
Dang. I usually don't cry when I watch talent shows.
Re: A True Ladies Man
The point is that this is true manliness, a much un-cultivated virtue in our society these days. And what makes it many is not only his self-sacrifice but his complete lack of self-pity.
Jun '10
Re: A True Ladies Man
Yes, the lack of self-pity is admirable. That precisely captures the quality I love in one of my favorite movies about being a man -- Cinderella Man.
May '10
Re: A True Ladies Man
Very insightful observation-- the lack of self-pity. You could also describe it as a bit of quiet manly confidence that comes from the fact that he's doing the right thing.
At least, as far as we can see from this video.
May '10
Re: A True Ladies Man
I believe it. Musical performance is an act in which inspiration is vital. It's like giving a speech. If you're just reading off cue cards or relaying someone else's words, people know. If you're sad or angry and your heart's not in it, people know.
Music is an act of expression. You need something compelling to express and you need the skill to express it. Medina has both. Whether or not he wins American Idol, he will be picked up by a publisher and continue to provide inspiration for all.
I hope that success will heal his fiancee and not keep him from her too often.
Jun '10
Re: A True Ladies Man
Very true, Aaron. Medina comes off as genuine. I hope he remains a stand-up guy.