men’s mental health awarness month
The Black Man
Majority of the time the face of mental health has been the black woman.
But what about the Black man? [let me get into it]
Hundreds of years of forced separation, involuntary emasculation, and character assassination.
Overlooked by cries of desperation of a woman whose rock’s just been taken.
Unable to embed the solidarity of a healthful life and a sturdy foundation.
We hear the cries of the children. But what about the Black man?
*Scarred for centuries, their inner child searching for answers beyond their reach.
Forced to solve an abundance of problems but robbed of their ability to teach.
Now they sit and wonder why their moms are all they see?
Daddy’s out there in the world still trying to figure out who they’re supposed to be.
Working that 9-5 or out all night just to make ends meet.
Buried in the stigmas of the world while just trying to stand on two feet.
We give all these safe spaces, provide all these seats.
But what about the Black man?*
They stay strong through it all; the ups, down, good times, and fights.
Sitting at the table alone in tears, just like we do some nights.
Anyone ever take the time to look into his eyes?
To see the world of pain and the confusion that lies?
The barriers they face just because of pressure to appear wise?
Held in the storm wearing a calm disguise, worried about us all…
But what about the Black man?
He bleeds silence in a world that forgot he can cry.
Taught to swallow his pain and keep his head up high.
True healing begins outside the lie that a man should be brave keeping anguish inside.
Everyone else can bear their pain on the wall and not be told to swallow their pride.
But what about the Black man?
Let that man rest. Let him breathe. Let him break. He has wounds to mend.
Let him spell out his anguish without the need to defend.
Not just strong, but he’s sacred… he’s way more than what he provides.
The Black man is art, he’s soul, he’s the story the world still hides.
So when you speak of any type of healing, include him in those plans.
Because there’s no such thing as true freedom without the Black man.
We Love You