"In Defense of Sarah Palin and Conservative Women" by Lloyd Marcus is a phenomenal piece of writing. If you have not read it yet, I encourage you to do so, and to share it with those you love.

While my words cannot compare to Marcus' eloquence, he has inspired me to rise in defense of conservative men. I do so not in deference to men, but in acknowledgement of the values and faith that we share.

Marcus suggests that, "Strong women inspire men to be strong." While I believe that to be true, I also believe that strong men inspire women to have courage of conviction. We both stand in defense of the truth, but our effectiveness truly lies in our shared strength. Of course, as women, we love it when men defend us, but even more so, we love it that you do not feel threatened when we defend you.

Men, the cat's out of the bag. We know the secret to your strength: Strength comes only from a loving and gentle heart. It makes itself known in many ways...the tear you shed as you read a particularly moving story, the prayers we share, the hug or hand you offer when one of us is hurting, the laughter over a silly story or a joke, the effort you make to "be a blessing", and all the countless other little things you do to make a difference each and every day.

So, while Marcus asks you to listen to "our girls," I ask you to listen to "our guys." They too have a great deal to say, and much goodness to offer the world.

Perhaps Marcus has at last helped us all to discover the pearl in the oyster. It is that ultimately what matters is that we treat each other with respect. In doing so, we honor the God who made us, and loves us - men and women - unconditionally.