Cry Like a Man: Fighting for Freedom from Emotional Incarceration

by Jason Wilson

Every boy needs a crew; every man needs camaraderie and a safe space to not only express his emotions but also release them, venting his cares to someone who cares. Sadly, a man’s concerns are often heard as complaining, just as a dog’s bark is annoying when no one sees trouble. Both warnings are rarely heeded before “the thief” breaks in and steals, kills, and destroys everything, even the dog. As men, we must take care of ourselves by truthfully expressing ourselves with other men we can trust. No matter our age, transparency will set us free.

Why are emotions such a surprise? It’s as if they’re someone we’ve never met—a person we’ve heard about but haven’t been introduced to. Then when they emerge in fighting spirit, we’re unable to identify them, much less control them. It’s a lot like Yah. You may know who He is and things He’s said and done. But if you’ve never personally met Him, talked to Him, and heard His voice, He’s a stranger. Unpredictable. At times terrifying. It only makes sense that He chooses to take up residence deep within us, in our hearts. Our emotional home. A place we as men tend to avoid.