There are a few times in a man’s life where it is okay to show your vulnerability-
to set the armor down and trust someone enough not to wound you.
At my grandfather’s funeral, I saw my uncle overcome with his sadness, and cry.
At my brother’s wake, I was overcome by my own, and I cried for him, and for his father and mother,
and in remembrance of all the good times we’d had and all the good ones we would never get to have.
After an incredibly painful separation from a woman I’d been with for a decade, I spent some time traveling and drinking, coping with it in a pretty unhealthy way, until I found my way through it with the help of some brothers.
There are things that my wife and my blood know about me, or have heard me say, that I would never
say or reveal to anyone else.
This is because a man should not put his weakness or vulnerability on display for the world to see.
What is it that you are hoping for when you broadcast another failed relationship, your personal woes,
inadequacies, embarrassing shortcomings, and day to day banality?
Attention? Sympathy? A few “likes” or hallmark “feel better, I’m here for you if you need to talk” comments on your social media account?
You should be ashamed. Your fathers and your ancestors would be ashamed of you.
This constant need to broadcast not only every tiny boring detail of our day into the churning maelstrom of disgusting slop that makes up your “feed” (compare to livestock),
but to also show every weakness felt throughout your quivering existence.
To draw attention to your revolting need like a child reaches upward and wails for an adult to take pity on him because walking is too hard.
To shout, not in a strong voice “WITNESS ME” as you perform glorious deeds to awe and inspire,
but feebly, and with much cracking “notice me…please!” as you crawl in the filth of your own insecurities and revel in your weakness, seeking that attention and sympathy like a junkie sucking dick for a hit.
Before you post, speak, signal, display- ask yourself if what you are presenting is powerful, strong,
useful, inspiring, or gives meaning, hope, value, or even laughter.
If the answer is no, ask yourself- why am I displaying this for the world to see?
Am I a junkie?
Am I a child?
Am I wasting my life?
Being a man is not an automatic title achieved by whatever you’ve got between your legs.
It is an idea, an accomplishment, an understanding of the concept of VIRTUS.
Try to act like one.
Support!