A Collection of Open Letters

to boys

an open letter to boys–

i don't understand you. sometimes i'll think i've cracked the code; i'll start believing that i understand you all. i never do, though. you avoid feelings like the plague. not all of you, no, but most of you do. you hide your feelings and keep to yourself until you've pushed everyone you may have loved away.

you tend to push young women close to you away and make them feel as if they're not wanted. whether you do or not is no longer the important question, no. now it's more about you growing, flourishing, and learning how to open up to those around you. please, open up and tell us what is going on in that strange mind of yours.

boys complain and tell us that they're not mind readers– that they can't tell what we're thinking. the funny thing about that is neither are us women. no one will know what you're thinking or feeling until you say something.

this is a lose-lose situation for the both of us. if you don't tell us what you're feeling, we are trained to assume the worst and we will drift. and the worst part is, if you really loved someone and you don't tell them, you're missing out. neither of you will have experienced what could have been. rather, you both will sit there wondering and pondering what may have happened if you just opened up a little bit.

in today's society, boys should be able to express themselves openly. we have progressed so much. men are wearing make-up and discussing sexuality in the open. however, those boys who were raised in a hushed household. a household where men don't cry and those who were beat for thinking about another man in bed. this is for you–

it's okay to express yourself. everyone has feelings. never be afraid to reach out for help when you need it. it does not show weakness, but rather strength. you know your limits and what you can handle. it's okay to have those surrounding you help you out when you need it. you don't have to go through life alone.

for the sake of your own sanity, express yourself. it's a dark, cruel world out there and those around you would be glad to support you in any way they can.

so please, boys, express yourself.