I started Journey to the Patriarchy as a way of helping and inspiring men that needed to improve their lives so that they can prepare to become fathers, better husbands, and better leaders for their family.
I'm not a psychologist, I don't have fancy letters after my name, I'm just a man that wants to help people and give them the best advice I can, so that they can avoid making the same mistakes that I did.
The entire reason why it's named "Journey" to the Patriarchy, is because I'm on the same Journey as the same people that are coming to this resource. I'm right alongside you all as we take this journey. I needed this journey and if you need it too, I'm glad you're here!
You can reach out to me at JourneytothePatriarchy@gmail.com for more information.
The Story of Us: 50 Years and Counting
By: Jean Brown
Fifty years ago, I stumbled upon a chance encounter that changed my life forever. I was single and navigating life after a breakup, while he was estranged from a brief marriage. Our paths converged unexpectedly at a lively party filled with new experiences. I was drawn to his outgoing nature and vast circle of friends, which was a stark contrast to my own unfamiliarity with the party scene. Initially, he was my ride to social gatherings, but soon enough, I discovered he was unlike anyone I'd ever met.
After a few weeks of dating, he invited me to meet his family, and it was there that I felt an undeniable connection. Their warmth and hospitality made me realize he was someone truly special. What set him apart? He would drive 20 miles just to pick me up and then take me home without a second thought. His language was always polite, and he had a deep love for music, despite not being able to carry a tune.
As our bond deepened, I realized I had found a partner who was not only caring but also respectful and genuine in every way. Together, we embraced life's ups and downs, always rooted in love and kindness. Throughout our years together, I've admired Darrell's unwavering composure and thoughtful approach to life's unexpected moments. While I tended to get swept up in chaos and the urge to jump into action, Darrell always approached situations methodically and with careful consideration.
I vividly remember occasions when others around us would react with loud emotions and frustration over damaged items or unexpected events. In contrast, Darrell remained a pillar of calmness, offering reassurance and a steady perspective that everything would eventually work out.
His ability to maintain a level head and provide comfort during challenging times has been a cornerstone of our relationship. Darrell's calm demeanor and logical thinking have not only guided us through difficult moments but have also inspired me to approach life with more patience and grace. Darrell's servant heart truly shines through in the thoughtful and selfless acts he performs.
Darrell's spirit of service has always been an inspiring part of his character. One particular example that stands out is his dedication to helping my mother. She worked as a cook in a retirement home, which meant she had to start her day incredibly early—often needing to be at work by 3:30 in the morning. Without hesitation, Darrell would wake up at 3 o'clock, drive across town, and ensure my mother arrived safely at work. His commitment to supporting others, even in the quiet hours of the morning, was a testament to his caring nature.
In our own daily lives, Darrell's servant heart continued to shine. Countless times, I found myself needing something from the grocery store or a similar errand, and Darrell would drop everything he was doing to lend a helping hand. His willingness to serve others with kindness and generosity is something I've always admired and cherished. I've never known anyone quite like Darrell—a man whose actions consistently demonstrate the beauty of compassion and selflessness. His servant heart has touched the lives of many, including mine, and continues to inspire us all.
The attributes and values embodied by Darrell are a testament to the upbringing and teachings of his mother. Raised with six siblings, Darrell's foundation of kindness, selflessness, and devotion to serving others stems from the values instilled by his mother, who imparted lessons of faith and love for the Lord to all her children. Darrell's unwavering commitment to helping others and his servant heart are not merely innate qualities but reflections of the deep-rooted values passed down through generations. His mother's influence cultivated a sense of empathy and compassion that continues to guide Darrell's actions every day.
As we celebrate 50 years of marriage, I am reminded of the profound impact of family and the enduring legacy of love and faith that continues to shape our lives. Darrell's upbringing is a testament to the power of nurturing values and the importance of carrying forward a spirit of generosity and service.
Written by Jean Brown
Troy was born on the 13th of October, 1972, in Denver, CO. He was a good baby, easy-going and adaptable, allowing us to take him anywhere with us. Everything seemed to come easily to Troy, though he faced a stuttering problem during his early elementary years, repeating about a fourth of all his words. Like many children, he was teased for it, but we were thankful for the excellent resources provided by public schools, which helped him overcome the issue within two years.
Troy's talent first became apparent in sports. We signed him up for soccer when he was in kindergarten or first grade, and it was still a relatively new sport in the U.S. Parents often asked us what we fed him, marveling at what a great little player he was. Troy enjoyed soccer throughout elementary school, high school, and into college, where he received a full-ride scholarship to Columbus, Nebraska. He also excelled in football and softball, and although he didn't play baseball, he was invited to attend a camp at the University of Nebraska for football kicking, which he declined.
After returning from college without graduating, Troy didn't have a job. He had several Camaros during school and was interested in cars due to his dad's influence. We suggested he work at a car lot, which he did. Shortly after starting at a Chevrolet dealership, he met and married his wife. He did very well and became a manager within a few years, a position he held for 21 years.
During those years, Troy and his wife Sarah had three children: Emma, George, and Megan. He was deeply involved in their upbringing, sharing daily chores like preparing meals, feeding, and changing diapers. An animal lover, Troy had a strong affection for his numerous cats and dogs.
Troy was devoted to his faith, professing his belief in the One who was born to die for the sins of mankind. Although he was not raised in a religious household, his parents were wholly devoted to him and his younger sister Stephanie. As a family, we were blessed to afford boats, RVs, ski trips, and camping. Despite sometimes appearing wealthier than we were, we often bought big items that Darrell, as a salesman, saw as opportunities to make money.
Early in his marriage, Troy shifted from simple pleasures to a more materialistic lifestyle, acquiring bigger boats, trucks, more expensive cars, phones, and clothes. While this in itself isn't wrong, money can go fast if not monitored. His family's spending habits became problematic when he left his managerial position with a guaranteed salary for a strictly commission-based job, where he was also responsible for his taxes and mileage.
The following document is notes that my uncle had been working on close to the end of his time here. While I don't have the prompts for what his notes are, I'm typing out his notes as close to as he has them on the page as possible, and hopefully there's something in there that will speak to you if you're going through your own difficulties.