The core of masculinity does not derive
from being male, nor friendliness
from those who console.

Your grandmother says “Maybe you shouldn’t
go to school. You look a little pale.”

You run when you hear that.
A father’s stern slaps are better.

Your bodily soul wants comfort.
The severe father wants spiritual clarity.

He scolds but eventually
leads you into the open.

Pray for a tough instructor
to hear and act and stay within you.

We have been busy accumulating solace.
Make us afraid of how we were.

Rumi

Who can say more?
–TDD