A Man's Tears
Taught as a Weakness; A Trans-generational Lie
Tears flow down the cheeks
Of men in dark theaters
Who wipe them dry
Before the popcorn vendor
Might catch a glimpse
Of the feelings
Not allowed into the
Display
Of the light of day.
A machismo-driven lie,
Men don't cry.
Whether from joy or sorrow,
Regrets from yesterday
Or hopes for tomorrow,
Empathic outpourings
Taught as pathetic
And not restoring.
To appear stoic and firm
Twists the innards of men
Like a malignant
Gut devouring worm.
Grandpa said it was so
As did great grandpa before him,
Though I suspect they both
Secretly sobbed
When the pains of real life
Gored them.
My father had no choice
He thought
But to pass it on to me,
But I have found
That tears can resound
To make who i am
A more complete
Me.
Sorrow sometimes converted
To anger,
The real source unknown to either
Close friend of stranger.
Better mad than sad;
The emotional albatross
Weighing down and drowning
The fullness of what
A man might become
Past some one-dimensional
Masculine frowning.
Published by David A. Reinstein, LCSW - Featured Contributor in Technology
Clinical Social Worker, psychotherapist, born in Boston and a relatively unscathed survivor of the 60 s. Fan of technology, guitars, creating music and poetry. Mental wellness coach, staff trainer and parent... View profile
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21 Comments
Post a CommentTrying to post a comment, again. Will see what happens.
Could it be a culture thing? I noticed the Koreans, in their TV dramas, portray men (usually the younger generation) crying unabashedly in sad situations. Then again, they also dress their men in more feminine style (pastel colors, cut and design).
Any man who says he doesn't shed a tear or two is kidding himself... and others. Well done, thanks!
Well done, and come to think of it, I have not often allowed tears in my life, for fear that once they flow they may never stop...
Lol, gotta preserve that pride, right?
I must be happier these days, because I don't often have a good cry. But I still cry during sad movies and when I hear a sad song. I don't like to cry in front of people because I am an "ugly cryer"...my face turns bright red and puffy, snot runs out of my nose...it's not pretty. haha
Why do men hide their tears so much? Don't they realize crying doesn't make them weak, but rather strong? Excellent poem!
I like a guy who can cry :) cheers!
Well said!
excellent - thanks:) Very well written and a great reminder we are not omnipotent.
You are very honest about the things that happen in this world today. It is great to be able to communicate about things and respect other people opinions at the same time. You have a wonderful day.