Book Review: Cry Like A Man
I grew up like most men hearing the phrases, “man up” and “toughen up” because real men don’t cry, show emotions or any form of weakness. But unfortunately, these types of ideologies have encouraged young boys and men to bottle up their feelings to their own demise.
I recently read Jason Wilson’s memoir titled, Cry Like A Man. It helps men to break free from their emotional incarceration which often leads to violent outbursts when not addressed and healed. The story was compelling, riveting and life-changing. I consumed all 223 pages in a few days.
Brother Jason Wilson is the director of the Cave of Adullam is a Transformational Training Academy (CATTA), a program Yunion, nonprofit organization founded in 2003 in Metro Detroit. He has received multiple awards and featured on CNN, FOX Sports, TODAY, The Mel Robbins Show, and The Dr. Oz Show.
I grew up like most men hearing the phrases, “man up” and “toughen up” because real men don’t cry, show emotions or any form of weakness. But unfortunately, these types of ideologies have encouraged young boys and men to bottle up their feelings to their own demise.
The book is transparent and vulnerable. Brother Jason doesn’t sugar coat anything. He describes his failures and the impact they had on his life. We also see hope and redemption; such a good reminder that perfection is not a prerequisite for true manhood.
The tone of the book is also less prescriptive. There are no list rules or steps one should follow in order to become a better man. I learned more from his modeling in the stories than the typical preachy approaches.
Two moments in the book stood out for me. One was when Jason’s family found out that he was still a virgin. He retells, “Thunderous laughter echoed throughout the house, followed by what had to be the single most humiliating experiences of my life.”
The shame and embarrassment was unbearable. Overtime Jason became promiscuous and viewed sexual intimacy with woman as casual and unimportant.
The other moment was when Jason and his father reconciled. He recounts, “For decades I thought power was based on how much weight you could lift and how many men you could knock out. Now I realize anyone untrained can lift a dumbbell or break a jaw. But real power is when a man can navigate through the pressures of this world without succumbing to his negative emotions.”
Jason experienced freedom when he forgave and embraced his feelings. Tears are not a sign of weakness, fragility, and feebleness. We are not wimps or sissies either. Promiscuity doesn’t make one manly.
A real man embraces his emotions and feelings. He takes responsibility for his actions. He loves, cares, and nurtures. He is a committed spouse and present with his children. A real man seeks healing and wholeness from his past. He is one who trusts and depends on Yeshua.
Cry Like A Man will help unleash your manhood. I recommend it without reservation.
Thank you Brother Jason for your example and inspiration.
Order the book and follow Brother Jason on Instagram @mrjasonowilson
Watch his videos on http://mrjasonwilson.com/youtube