This third reason may be more selfish. If we don’t mend these broken directives and reset the representation of what a good man looks like, then women will continue to move further from the center of traditional values, leaving this new generation of men concerned about being emasculated and alone.

These are the reasons why I am sorry, sister. We have strayed further from healing and becoming whole from our core desires — which is to love and be loved.

Sister, I am sorry, I apologize for any person, any man, any representation of leadership from a male figure, anyone you trusted, and anyone who you valued or thought you had a valuable relationship with. I apologize for spaces where distrust, mismanagement, abuse and unwarranted reality showed up. I apologize, sister. I am sorry.

There is something in this universe, or rather this current climate, that begins to break me. However, I will not allow myself to be broken while I allow it to break you. Sister, mother, wife, friend, homegirl, we will not be broken and we will not fall.

There is a disdain in the air and a separation of men that has become so toxic that the divide between men and women is taking on an unprecedented shape much uglier than ever before. I am sorry we have led you here — to oceans of toxicity, a place that can’t quench your thirst or help you in any way. I apologize to any men before me in any shape or form.

I want to remind you that you are God’s best; you literally bring life to this planet. Don’t apologize for your growth and success. Don’t diminish yourself or your self-worth.

Believe it or not, there are men that see your value and purpose, and will lift you higher. These words, I hope, are proof of that.

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Terrell Maclin spent over 25 years studying vulnerability, courage, control, worthiness and shame. His first project on relationship healing called “Sister I’m Sorry” landed him on Oprah and was seen by millions.

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Terrell Maclin

Writing since May 2022 · 1 story contributed