A commercial for Snickers candy bars launched in the Super Bowl broadcast was benched after its maker got complaints that it was homophobic.

The ad showed two auto mechanics accidentally kissing while eating the same candy bar and then ripping out some chest hair to do something “manly.” One of the alternate endings on the Snickers Web site showed the men attacking each other.

The Human Rights Campaign and the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation complained to the maker of Snickers, Hackettstown-based Masterfoods USA, a division of Mars Inc., which also makes M&M’s and other candies.                                               [ABC News]

Okay, I understand GLAAD’s point, so to offset commenters - yes, I get it. BUT, I have an alternative perspective.

This commercial is infact an honest and funny depiction of manliness. You think I’m kidding?

These two fellows, working on a car, encounter an awkward moment that challenges their masculinity. Out of their insecurity and desire to be seen in the context of who they are (men) they must rectify the situation and prove themselves (to each other).  

There is an intense desire of men to be seen for who they really are (especially amonst each other). The male code or credo has often been falsely labeled “homophobic” - to which I disagree. In the quest to embody masculinity (the way God intended it) we are called to shake off all that is feminine (or seeming homosexual). So is this mindset homophobic? No, it is strictly a desire to be all that we are in the face of a world that doesn’t want to see it happen.

[yes I am also aware that most worldly views of a manly man are false - but I'm not talking about a worldly perspective of what a man is - I'll define that in an upcoming blog]

I became aware of this through my friend Kevin Bussey. It’s a testimony from Tony Dungy, the coach of the Indianapolis Colts.  

“Athletes in Action celebrated its 19th Annual Super Bowl Breakfast with Tony Dungy as the first-ever Super Bowl coach to appear in person a day before the most pivotal juncture in his coaching life.”

“Dungy was greeted by multiple standing ovations from the record crowd of 2,500 people clearly appreciative for his many expressions of his faith to the worldwide media in Miami this week in advance of Super Bowl XLI.

“I’m very proud to be the first African American head coach in the Super Bowl along with my friend Lovie Smith,” Dungy said, “but more than that the fact you have two Christian coaches who show you can do things a different way.”                                                                                                                                [BP News]

What an amazing testimony from a godly man. It really took the Super Bowl experience to a different level.

Well, it was Super Bowl time again! This year (and most) I had no vested interest in the game, but always as a family we’re looking for any reason to have a party. The idea this year: let the kids pick who they want to win. James picked the Colts and Aida liked the Bears. So to make it fun, we decided that the boys would root for Indianapolis and the girls for Chicago.

We all dressed in team colors, my father bought the kids team hats and we wear ready to go! So with plenty of chips and salsa, the game began. It was a blast. Picking sides engaged the whole family. There was much cheering and gnashing of teeth over the next few hours, and in the end it was a great time had by all.

The results: The boy’s team won! Colts 29 Bears 17. Woo Hoo!

And here’s the reaction amongst the kids: 

Next sports party idea: March Madness (we can’t wait)!