Confessions of a libra

Tender weather | Credit: Here

22.05.25

I’ve been witness to male on male violence. My whole life. I have watched men be physically and emotionally abused. For growing and not being perfect the first time. For daring to ask questions, voice feelings or even have a sense of self. Forced through violence, apathy and repetition to feel unsafe in the softness. To abandon your inner child, in favour of a mask that never pleased you. Forcing you to be in rooms with other men where you are all circling the truth. Never quite piercing it in the heart.

Even men can feel guarded for having loved innocently and passionately – only to receive heartache. This is not a gendered experience. As someone who makes the decision to be soft over and over again, I am telling you that you can survive. You simply integrate the lessons you learnt from meeting the people that were there for your growth. For the journey not the destination. It might be hard to hear because we sometimes see a future so crystal clear. I sometimes tell myself that we see glimpses of alternate realities where we have made different decisions. That’s why we cower after it doesn’t work out. Some of us, have the ability to see the impossible dream.

I know you are tired. You feel like you’ve tried everything and put your heart on the line. You are never too late for love. There is a man or a woman or non-binary baddie who is feeling the same struggles you are. You weren’t build wrong if you cry more than other men. You can be a straight man and carry your softness without shame. You can be a gay man and your softness doesn’t have to define you. People’s perceptions of your masculinity should come secondary to your own and to your self worth. People come and go, but you and your inner voice are forever.

Hug your bro unexpectedly. Throw away your ex’s things that you are holding onto. Rebuild your emotional world a moment at a time. A brave step at a time, no matter how small. Love with all your heart, but always stay vigilant. Listen to your body first, before you make any decisions. Protect your softness. Protect your inner child. Because you deserve it.