Growing up, I was taught that a man has to defend his family.

Host: The atmosphere in the room shifts as Jack and Jeeny sit quietly with B. B. King's powerful words. The imagery of standing in the doorway to protect what’s most precious evokes a deep sense of duty, courage, and responsibility. Jack leans forward slightly, contemplating the weight of the quote.

Jeeny: "B. B. King once said, 'Growing up, I was taught that a man has to defend his family. When the wolf is trying to get in, you gotta stand in the doorway.' That’s such a vivid way to think about protection and responsibility, right? It’s not just about physical defense, but about standing firm in the face of danger to protect what you care about. What do you think he’s really getting at with this?"

Jack: He pauses, clearly reflecting. "I think King is talking about strength and resilience, not just physically, but emotionally and morally. The 'wolf' could be any threat—anything that comes for your family or your values. And the doorway is a symbolic place of decision—it’s where you either step up or step back. To stand in the doorway means you take responsibility for those you love, even when it’s difficult, even when the odds are against you." He sighs, his voice deepening. "It’s a call to act, to protect what’s important with courage, no matter what the world throws at you."

Jeeny: "Yes, it’s about sacrifice, too. You’re standing in the doorway not just to protect physically, but to protect the peace, the well-being, the values of your family. It’s a kind of metaphorical gatekeeper role. You’re standing there, facing whatever challenges come, and not backing down. You’re protecting what’s sacred, even if it costs you." She pauses, her voice thoughtful. "It’s also about honor—the honor of being the protector, of taking on that responsibility and not shying away from it."

Jack: "Right. And there’s a deeper level of meaning there. The wolf might represent any number of external threats—fear, conflict, hardships—but standing in the doorway shows resolve. It’s a commitment to facing those challenges head-on, not letting them inside, not letting them disrupt what you’ve worked for. Whether it’s your family, your values, or your peace of mind, you’re saying ‘I’m here, and I won’t let these forces in.’" He looks at her, his voice growing firmer. "That’s a powerful role to take on. It’s not just about standing still—it’s about being ready to act, to protect, and to defend."

Jeeny: "And I think it’s important that King is talking about what he was taught growing up. He’s not just expressing a personal belief, but something that was instilled in him from an early age. The idea that defending your family isn’t just an obligation—it’s part of your identity as a protector. It’s about being the one who steps forward when needed, even if it’s scary, even if it’s difficult." Her expression softens, her voice quieter. "It’s about leadership in the family, in the community. The one who takes the responsibility to face the wolves and ensure safety, even at the risk of their own safety."

Jack: "Exactly. And the concept of standing in the doorway feels like a kind of sacred duty. It’s not just physical protection—it’s standing firm in your values, in your commitment to those you love, no matter what comes your way. The ‘wolf’ is an external force, but it’s also a symbol for anything that threatens what you cherish. It’s the courage to stand firm, to face down those threats, and not let them take away what’s important." He smiles slightly, his voice softening. "I think that's what makes B. B. King’s words so profound—it’s a call to strength, to protection, and to duty."

Jeeny: "It’s about acting when the time comes. Not waiting for someone else to step up, but taking on the responsibility yourself. The doorway represents that critical moment when you have to make the choice to defend, to act, and to protect." She looks at Jack with a deep understanding. "It’s not about fighting for the sake of fighting—it’s about protecting what matters. And that takes courage, especially when you know there’s a risk involved."

Host: The room seems to hold a deep, quiet understanding now, as the weight of B. B. King's words settles between them. To stand in the doorway is to embrace a role of responsibility, courage, and action—to protect what is precious, even when faced with adversity. It is a powerful reminder that leadership, in its truest form, is about stepping up, standing firm, and defending what we hold dear.

As the evening continues, Jack and Jeeny reflect on the deeper meaning of protection—not just physical defense, but emotional, moral, and familial commitment. It’s a reminder that true strength comes not just from power, but from the responsibility we take for others, and the courage to stand in the doorway when the world outside threatens to disrupt the peace we've worked to build.