BROKEN PIECES💔 FROM OBWERA - Mental Health file 2210-03

Have met broken men before, and it’s a catastrophe.
They all hide their brokenness somewhere, fearing judgment because society labels a man as the strong one.

If a man reports abuse, violence, or trauma, they say, "He's too weak to be considered sane," or "Too strong to be sympathized with."

But he has demons he fights alone, searching for light and freedom while his spirit is crushed under life’s trials.

BROKEN PIECES FROM OBWERA

Dearest Ndapita,

I write this note as part of my broken pieces, struggling to make them whole.

I clearly remember how you said to my face that "I carry poverty on my skin like birthmarks" and that "men are only good at chapter one of every love story." Your words made me hate the mess my emotions brought.

My chest felt heavy at every memory of you. In those moments, I saw no meaning in life—the reason to live. Death beckoned me every second. Should it be a rope? A staged accident? Poison in my tea? I entertained countless thoughts of death; suicide became my best last option. But I survived every attempt—another chance to live, though haunted by painful memories that still echo like sharp objects in my head.

I have sabotaged myself time and again. I am exhausted, yet I still want to draw breath.

I now forgive myself for believing that people can change for you—for sacrificing my dreams and ambitions just to impress you.

You left—my sanity left with you. There was no meaning in anything around me. I experienced a mental breakdown. I go on my knees each time, wondering if there’s another way to label pain and brokenness. I wish I could extract the aches from every part of me without leaving scars on my skin because I realize I have battles to fight, wars to win.

So, I got up from the ground and affirmed my worth.

I read somewhere that you are worthy of the moon, the stars, and every glimmer of the world.

Lastly, I thought to let you know that I have charged up my self-esteem. I am working on my ambitions and dreams. I grew tired of the suffocating feeling that hovered over me.

Even when society says, "A man should always toughen up," I say, "A man should refuse to suffer in silence. There’s nothing wrong with speaking up! Mental health should be a priority!"

Obwera.