The Day I Got Married (One)
It started with a fight, of course
couples fighting is a cliché—but better
than the reverse. Consider the things
we fight: illness, ignorance, death and all
the things that die when we fight them—and don’t.
Couples that don’t fight don’t exist, or else
don’t care enough to defeat indifference—
which is slow death by suffocating distress.
We fight because we don’t like what we see
looking back, across the table or in the mirror.
Fighting is seldom peaceful, but peace at all costs
is apathy, and at least the death of certain peace
serves a function, it’s something worth fighting for.
What, after all, is the purpose of a heart,
sustaining the ceaseless calm of countless
could-have-beens, stalemate the default
of an existence unburdened by deliberation,
conscience, consideration or, finally, cliché?
We fight to make our nostalgia matter,
the past a concordance of best intentions
and achievement—a story worth telling,
since the way we earn memories informs
the future: the decisive fight of our lives.
The Day I Got Married (Two)
I think I’ve figured it out.
I hope I’ve figured us out.
And I’m at peace not knowing
secrets I’m not meant to solve.
I’m okay with some suspense,
I’ll reserve the right to hope:
There’s still so much to see.
That I’ll learn more as we love,
That I’ll love all what we find,
That I’ll find ways to recall
How discouraged I once was,
And I’ll nurture this accord
‘til death, too soon, does its part,
A disruption, not an end.
—
FAQs – About The Good Men Project
What is The Good Men Project?
The Good Men Project is a mission-driven media platform founded in 2010 that explores modern masculinity, men’s mental health, relationships, fatherhood, identity, and social change through personal stories, expert insights, and cultural analysis.
What is The Good Men Project’s mission?
Our mission is to expand the conversation about what it means to be a good man in the 21st century — in ways that are inclusive, emotionally honest, and grounded in real human experience.
Why does The Good Men Project focus on masculinity?
Because masculinity shapes how men show up in relationships, families, workplaces, and communities. Examining it thoughtfully helps reduce harm, challenge stereotypes, and create healthier outcomes for everyone.
Is The Good Men Project inclusive?
Yes. GMP is committed to inclusive, progressive perspectives that challenge sexism, racism, homophobia, and narrow gender roles. We believe expanding masculinity benefits people of all genders.
How long has The Good Men Project been around?
The Good Men Project was founded in 2010 and has published continuously for over 15 years, making it one of the longest-running platforms dedicated to modern masculinity and men’s issues.
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