False Anthems Poem by Frank Douglas

Don't cry.
Don't talk too quiet. Speak dignified.
Don't show weakness. Be brave.
Stand up straight. Walk with a purpose.

Be silent.
Vulnerability is the key to failure. Be strong.
Be a gentleman. Show some class.
Opening up is wrong. Keep to yourself.

Man up.
Stop humming. You sound like a girl.
You don't look hard boy. You look soft.
We don't cross our legs. We cross those who look at us funny.

Don't sniffle.
Keep good eye contact. Don't look away.
Be independent. Don't seek out help.
Be a man. You are doing it all wrong.

Be someone you aren't.