Men have traditionally been called to remain stoic, unwavering, no matter the adversity they face. They serve an important role in the world, often expected to be leaders, strong competitors, the patriarchs, always providing and needing for nothing. But what if life isn’t a competition? What if it is more than just a ladder to climb? What if it’s less about provision, strength, and stoicism, and more about being inextricably, unapologetically human?
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The landscape has changed. Tradition gives way to progressive ideas. This doesn’t mean that tradition is unimportant. In fact, what has worked for millennia, would likely work for a thousand more years. But hopeful, young, and sometimes naively idealistic people push the envelope in the hopes of not just maintaining the status quo, but to create something better. We begin to enter uncharted territory, and we are no longer certain where it leads. Artificial intelligence, broken gender boundaries, a society where leadership is no longer bound by traditional societal roles. It can leave men wondering exactly where they fit into all of this.
It is no wonder more men are succumbing to depression, anxiety, statistics pointing toward higher rates of suicide. Often, they feel that there is nobody to turn to. If they are fortunate enough to be in a relationship, wives or girlfriends don’t understand, and otherwise, friends, if there are any, aren’t even aware of the struggles. Mental health struggles contribute to developing addictions that contribute to more mental health struggles. Or the addiction comes first, either way there’s a lot of suffering.
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Then there’s the moral troubles. Lust becoming an increasing problem with young men who have unlimited access to the internet and any number of pornographic videos. Where do we go from here?
I don’t have all the answers, although I do work diligently to listen to everyone I encounter in life, and to attempt to help them feel that they are seen and heard. And that might just be what anyone ever wants in life anyway. There is a path to healing, but it requires community, it requires people to work together, and most importantly it requires you. You, the man that might have read this article and at some point had these words resonate. You, the woman that has come to the end of this article and had their father, brother, or son come to mind. We are all called to love one another. To actually SEE the person you cross paths with. To show compassion to your fellow man. And to listen when they finally do open up. Nobody can go through this life on their own. But we can all use our unique positions in this world to give life to others.
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The Movember initiative gives us an opportunity to reflect on these issues and to promote healing and improve men’s health. Whether it’s making a Growmitment and raising funds and/or awareness, donating to the cause, or even just encouraging others to, we can all make a difference in our own ways. Visit https://movember.com/ to help the cause.
And if you need someone to talk to, if you’re ready to set up concrete goals and objectives, you are always welcome to send me an email or call me. We can set up a preliminary consultation and follow-up plan. Visit https://alexandregmcgoverntes.com for more information on my services, schedule, pricing, and information on how to book an appointment.
