The forgotten

He insecurely sits with his legs clamped together. He is normally not this insecure, but today it’s different. The quarrels from home have worn him out. The stagnation at work makes him feel worthless. He is lost in a stare towards the podium. He suddenly crosses his arms and legs when his boss takes the podium. Her intimidating voice sends chills not only to him but the whole room.

His story is that of a man trying to find his place in a new world. A world so new even his mentors are clueless. The last he heard from them they judglingly said — mwanaume hafai kukaliwa na mwanamke hivi. Without guidance, he is forced to second-guess his way through the untrailed paths. The paths that he has to navigate cautiously. Cautious with his words not to be viewed as misogynistic. Cautious with his actions not to be accused of sexism.

This cautiousness has turned into fear. His masculine broad frame has become a paradox to his new feminine demeanour. His emotional strength has been crumbled. He is no longer the pillar of strength his wife would lean on. He easily succumbs to any challenge. His eyes are quick to tears — far from their former strong gaze.

What do we do now?