Be a Man!

When I was only 5 years old, my mom told me to always be strong.

Yet I cried when I fell down the stairs the next day, and my dad hit me because it was wrong. ⠀⁣⁣
When I danced at the age of 9, no-one genuinely cared.
But that changed as soon as I started earning, for the stories of my success were lordly shared. ⠀⁣⁣

My fantasies were stifled, silenced.
To stereotypes and labels, I was sold.
I surrendered myself to your constraints, and in return, I was made unapologetically cold. ⠀⁣⁣

Shoved frantically to the top, I was forbidden to feel⠀⁣⁣
(a man's touch, emotions, guilt). ⠀⁣⁣
Living behind the mask of violence and rudeness ever since⁣ my scars still haven't healed. ⠀⁣⁣
⁣
My position in society began to be questioned, by the ones who placed me there. ⁣
You preach about consent, justice, equality,⠀⁣⁣
tell me, is what I've been through actually fair? 

⠀⁣⁣
Why can't I break free from your chains? ⠀⁣⁣
I'm not fond of this misogynistic thrill
(that you've imposed upon me).⠀⁣⁣
I swear on the dreams I was forced to sacrifice, this crown was given to me against my own will. ⠀⁣⁣
⠀⁣⁣
I've been tortured, stabbed with expectations, and for years I've been in excruciating pain. ⠀⁣⁣
Every night I wipe my tears with a mirage of scented handkerchiefs, yet for being aloof I'm always blamed. ⠀⁣⁣
⠀⁣⁣
I never asked to be a boy. I never wanted to be rugged, hairy or cocky.
I just wanted to be held, caressed,
I wanted to be accepted by at least somebody. ⠀⁣⁣
⠀⁣⁣
Understand me. ⠀⁣⁣
I'm delicate and I'm tired. It isn't my mistake. ⠀⁣⁣
Please. I'm losing myself, just....give me a break. ⠀⁣⁣
⠀⁣⁣
The enemy here isn't a particular gender or cast, ⁣but your very own mentality. ⁣
Defeat it, change it, overcome it, if you really wish to mend our flawed reality.