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Through the Eyes of a Black Father
Unmasking the Pain: The Reality of Stress and Depression Among Black Men in Fatherhood
What is a mask?
It is not merely a covering for the face, fashioned from cloth, paper, or any material that may serve the purpose of shielding us from airborne threats like particles, germs, and pollutants. No, it carries a weight far greater than its humble existence suggests. They delve into the depths of our identity, intertwining with who we are.
Metaphorically, the mask represents the barriers erected by weary souls to protect themselves from a world too often unkind. It becomes the façade one presents to the world, concealing the torrents of true thoughts, feelings, and vulnerabilities that churn within.
How often have we, adorned this mask in our own lives, desperate to shield ourselves from the relentless gaze of judgment, criticism, or rejection?
You see, the world perceives a man named Louis Byrd, as a prosperous entrepreneur, a tireless advocate for change within the community, and a pillar of strength supporting his cherished family. But, the truth remains concealed behind this mask of success and resilience.
In the shadows of my existence, I grapple with depression, that relentless companion…
