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Dear son,
If you’re ever feeling hurt
And you express your feelings about it,
I won’t tell you “man up” or “stop crying.”
When we teach you about male privilege and disadvantage.
I won’t mock your “male tears” if you protest.
I will teach you about consent and respect;
And that it’s okay to ask for it yourself.
Expressing your vulnerability may not be comfortable (for others).
Avoid the petulant, narcissistic, and dramatic
Who says either “Be a man” or “be a better man”
Depending on what masculinity they expect.
I hope one day you’ll say:
“It’s not like that anymore, dad.”
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