Men-as-Stones-of-the-Patriarchy:-Unraveling-the-Double-Edged-Sword

Centuries ago, the unwritten rule, "THE PHYSICALLY STRONGER RULES," established a strict hierarchical order where men held power as leaders, protectors, warriors, and prizes.

This system assigned specific roles to each gender, with men venturing out to hunt and provide while women remained at home to care for the household.

Though seemingly balanced, this arrangement relied on the complete subjugation of women and perpetuated deeply ingrained stereotypes.

In the present day, after much struggle, women have been granted more rights and allowances.

However, undoing years of enforced sexism and misogyny proved challenging, as it had permeated every aspect of human life.

Men, placed in a position of privilege by the patriarchy, bear the weight of a double-edged sword.

While they enjoy certain privileges, they are also confined within a cage of grandeur, leading to potential side effects that have a profound impact on their emotional well-being.

Men are expected to epitomize strength, logic, and invincibility, subjected to constant scrutiny to conform to societal norms. They are often discouraged from expressing emotions and seeking help, as doing so is seen as a sign of weakness.

Phrases like "Real men don't cry!" or "Be a man!" push them towards toxic independence, leading some to resort to self-harm or conceal their true feelings behind a facade of anger.

Moreover, society's dismissal of seemingly feminine emotions like sadness, hurt, frustration, and defeat leaves men with limited emotional outlets.

Consequently, many men suppress their feelings until they explode in irrational rage or resort to unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as addiction or self-harm.

Even more distressing, men who become victims of sexual assault face immense stigma and silence. Society struggles to comprehend how a man can be raped, and as a result, these victims often suffer in silence, carrying heavy emotional burdens without the opportunity to seek support.

Furthermore, men who do not fit the stringent mold of traditional masculinity face ridicule, bullying, and hatred.

Unrealistic societal expectations for men to embody an "Alpha fire-breathing hulk" have taken a toll on their mental health.

Sadly, there are few safe spaces for men to openly discuss their struggles, leading to alarming suicide rates, which are 2.6 times higher than those of women.

Men, too, are human beings with emotions and vulnerabilities, not just stoic stones. To lead emotionally healthy lives, they need the support and understanding that society must offer.

However, it is essential to recognize that one cannot bemoan the harm caused by the patriarchy while clinging to its privileges.

To foster true progress, men must let go of the patriarchal expectations and actively challenge toxic masculinity.

By doing so, we can create a more equitable society, where individuals of all genders can thrive emotionally and mentally, breaking free from the constraints of the patriarchal cage.

In this journey towards dismantling the patriarchal system, it is crucial for both men and women to work hand in hand.

Men must embrace vulnerability and emotional expression, recognizing that strength lies not only in physical prowess but also in the courage to confront one's emotions.

On the other hand, women can play a pivotal role by supporting and uplifting men, allowing them to break free from the shackles of traditional masculinity without judgment or ridicule.

Together, we can reshape societal norms, fostering an environment where men are encouraged to seek help, express their feelings openly, and form authentic connections, ultimately leading to a healthier and more compassionate world for all.