I feel profound compassion for those who did not grow up within a healthy family structure - particularly men deprived of a proper father figure - due to the pervasive influence of certain aspects of mainstream culture. Those fortunate enough to have supportive families often fail to grasp how significant a disadvantage it is to lack a guiding framework.
Without this foundation, these men are left to navigate the concept of masculinity alone. They seek role models - often latching onto figures they perceive as admirable - yet their understanding of what "good" looks like is underdeveloped. This makes them vulnerable to false idols - much like the pitfalls conveyed by religious doctrines.
It is only when they begin to think critically for themselves that they start piecing together a mosaic of the man they wish to become. However, many struggle to complete this process until much later in life - if at all. A part of them often feels unworthy of love - a belief rooted in the survival mechanisms they adopted in childhood to cope with their circumstances.
Yet, for those men who choose to fight the good fight - striving to grow, to reject toxicity and addictions, and to take on responsibility despite the odds - I will always hold immense respect, space, and care for them. The act of embracing responsibility stands in stark contrast to the conditioning they received during their formative years - but it is this transformation that shapes them into the strongest men society desperately needs.
Men like this will always hold a special place in my heart.
