This month, we will be commemorating Movember which is a global movement where men grow mustaches to raise awareness on men’s health issues, such as prostate cancer, testicular cancer and men’s mental wellness.
In support of this, we are sharing this letter to our men.
Dear Men, you are the first people we look up to in a room when we hear an unexpected bang outside. We trust that you are the ones to protect us from danger and handle the tough situations. Our children trust that when you throw them up in the air you will be there to hold them and not let them fall. You are our cornerstones.
Dear Men, in this world full of chaos, pain and suffering, we look up to you. But even in all this, we know you are huMAN. It is okay for you to share your problems, fears and worries with us. It is okay for you to be hurt. It is okay for you to get scared when you have no idea what to do next. There is nothing unMANly about it. It is okay to cry. It is ok not to be OK. We care about you.
Dear Men, take care of your bodies. We like it when you look well kempt, clean and when you smell good. Take care of your health too. From the food you take, and to the number of times you indulge in the bottle. Get fit and take plenty of clean water as a way of maintaining a fit lifestyle. Don’t drown yourself in alcohol when you can have a sober chat about what’s up. We want to listen to you just as you listen to us. Doing it alone doesn’t make you more of a man. We care about you. Do not forget to get regular checks as early detection is key in fighting cancer.
We are sorry when we hurt you. We are sorry when we do not appreciate your efforts. But that doesn’t mean we don’t love you. Sometimes all you have to say is “that hurt my feelings.” Not allowing yourself to be vulnerable enough to give or receive love because somehow it makes you less ‘manly’ is absurd. Do not deny yourself the opportunity to receive a basic need for all living things- love.
Your body is sacred too. It is unfortunate that there’s a societal stereotype that paints men as promiscuous. This doesn’t have to be the case. Find your worth, be mindful of the relations you have and learn self-discipline, it goes a long way in your overall health and wellbeing.
Dear men, know when to be strong and when to be tender. It’s is in owning your shortcomings while living in your truth that you can be free. Before you are a man, you are huMAN first.
We would like to tell you that You Matter, We See You, We love & Appreciate you. We need you in our lives. The society needs you too.
Now, let the beard grow. Happy Movember!
