INDImag – Contemporary fiction | Motivational short stories | Social stories | Short story criticism

What is it about men and babies? I have observed many a sane and “in control” guy go weak in the knees at the sight of a gurgling baby. He doesn’t think twice before donning the joker’s hat, coochie-cooing and prancing around to make the baby laugh. All theories of “Men are heartless” fly out of the window when you place a chubby baby on a guy’s arm.

The other day I was watching the lead trio of “Hey Baby” trying to placate a distressed baby girl. The sight of her dimpled laugh was enough to motivate them to mend their ways.

Somehow, through ages, men have been taught not to cry or show emotions. Display of affection has always been a taboo. Being called a sissy would be any hot blooded Male’s nightmare. Even on home turf, my brother always shied away from expressing his love. It was only recently, when work took me away, did I receive my first ever emotional “Miss You Didi” letter.

Somehow, our society has always looked down on men who have expressed their feelings. It has instilled in its boys the fine qualities of being a “superman” and carrying all burdens and disappointments silently. No wonder many females still prefer the “strong and silent” variety. If only we had been more humane and open to such outlet of emotions, a lot of our farmers could have been saved from committing suicides! Most of these men had no one to turn to for sharing their pent up feelings or hopeless situation.

However, guys alone should not be blamed for this state of affairs. How many of us ladies as mothers,

Men don't cry ? Really ?

sisters, wives or friends have been available to provide soothing shoulders to distressed guys? Most of us feel we were born to be humored, to be treated like princesses, to be cuddled and supported during our low moments. Don’t guys have a right to similar treatment? How many from the mahilla mandal have taken the pains to make a guy laugh at the risk of being called a cartoon? Why must the guy always play the joker, be a punching bag and provide cushion?

I remember receiving a harried call from a friend a few years back. He was distressed, angry and on verge of an emotional breakdown. Reason being – he had been dumped by his girl friend. His gunaah?? He had been caught red handed shedding a tear or two while watching Jack die in Titanic ! “Oh be a man !!!” were the last words of the femme fatale. Too bad…she failed to appreciate a sensitive soul. I would respect an Advani (famous as the Iron man) who cried while watching “Taare Zameen Par” rather than a pumped up but emotionless body !

Thankfully, times-are-a-changing ! Today it is fairly normal to find guys expressing love and affection. Its a complete delight when men express their feelings and share their concerns. Makes them more lovable!

I loved watching the cutest movie ever (Baby’s Day Out) with a guy who couldn’t contain his laughter and melted with Baby Joe’s antics. It was an eye-opener when a friend disclosed that he was afraid of horror movies and could not bear the sight of blood. Another flinches at the gore and violence shown in movies. One has gone ahead and shared his fear of cockroaches with me (I went berserk laughing!!!). Earlier, I would have been surprised at such admissions. Not anymore.

Men don't cry ? Ask a man who has been loved !

Men should be allowed to display affection, feel despair, show hurt and express fear. It only makes them more endearing and easier to connect with.

Boys don’t cry. Says who? Go ask a guy who has loved and been loved.

Thank You For Reading This Post. Please Stop By Again.