Your piece powerfully illustrates how the social constructs around masculinity have deeply shaped our experiences as men and limited our emotional well-being. It’s striking how you trace your journey from initial resistance to vulnerability to a more honest, grounded view of yourself and those around you. This narrative resonates so strongly because you highlight the real human costs of covert depression and the unhealthy expectations of manhood—like your own struggle to ask for help or share your inner life. Your honesty in naming and confronting these barriers, and your willingness to talk about the patriarchy’s damage to men as well as women, makes your insights even more compelling.
What I find especially valuable in this piece is the practical path you carve out for others: journaling, leaning on trusted friends, and challenging internalized ideals of masculinity. You demonstrate that vulnerability is not only possible but also essential for healthier, more authentic relationships—with ourselves and others. Your call for us men to “take back our power” by embracing vulnerability feels urgent and hopeful. It’s a powerful reminder that healing and growth come when we dare to show our true selves, even when it’s messy and uncomfortable.
Andy, you cover sooooooo very much in one comprehensive essay. Thank you for so many lifesaving gems contained here.
I'm very lucky to have a small group of friends, all men, who meet for coffee every Monday and talk about things most guys avoid. Every topic, which comes up organically during our conversations, is rooted in the same thing: vulnerability. It really is a foundational element.
The thing is, it wasn't an intentional group; we just came together in an organic manner. I'm blessed and really need to take the time to be grateful for these awesome guys.
By the way, if you ever find yourself in Prescott, AZ, there's a coffee with your name on it. :)
You never cease to amaze me with your in-depth analyses….I am sure you are helping many others with your story, as well as helping yourself. 💗
Thank you! ❤️
Your piece powerfully illustrates how the social constructs around masculinity have deeply shaped our experiences as men and limited our emotional well-being. It’s striking how you trace your journey from initial resistance to vulnerability to a more honest, grounded view of yourself and those around you. This narrative resonates so strongly because you highlight the real human costs of covert depression and the unhealthy expectations of manhood—like your own struggle to ask for help or share your inner life. Your honesty in naming and confronting these barriers, and your willingness to talk about the patriarchy’s damage to men as well as women, makes your insights even more compelling.
What I find especially valuable in this piece is the practical path you carve out for others: journaling, leaning on trusted friends, and challenging internalized ideals of masculinity. You demonstrate that vulnerability is not only possible but also essential for healthier, more authentic relationships—with ourselves and others. Your call for us men to “take back our power” by embracing vulnerability feels urgent and hopeful. It’s a powerful reminder that healing and growth come when we dare to show our true selves, even when it’s messy and uncomfortable.
Thank you!
Andy, you cover sooooooo very much in one comprehensive essay. Thank you for so many lifesaving gems contained here.
I'm very lucky to have a small group of friends, all men, who meet for coffee every Monday and talk about things most guys avoid. Every topic, which comes up organically during our conversations, is rooted in the same thing: vulnerability. It really is a foundational element.
Thank you for your very valuable reminder.
That’s really amazing! I’d love to get a group like that together in my life.
The thing is, it wasn't an intentional group; we just came together in an organic manner. I'm blessed and really need to take the time to be grateful for these awesome guys.
By the way, if you ever find yourself in Prescott, AZ, there's a coffee with your name on it. :)
I’m hoping I find myself out there!
Andy , this , this piece of achingly beautiful writing touched my heart . It moved me . What a brilliant writer you are !
Your post deserves more likes and recognition.
In all honesty I am proud of sharing your vulnerability and feelings here , and that’s brave , really brave of you .
It hit home , where you describe how we men in today’s society feel caged emotionally.
Simply brilliant.
I am glad I came across this post .
I write about emotional sensitivity and how I have dealt with it my entire life , and the quiet beauty of being misunderstood.
Suffering through my emotions and depression.
I really have a work some of my work will deeply resonate with you .
You can check it your if you may like .
Happy to connect with you . Looking forward to more conversations and discussions.
Keep writing , and inspiring others .
Warm regards
Pelle .