its what keeps us sane. To talk about things, and talk things out. It is a bit unrealistic to say that men have to be stoic and hard, brave like a brick wall. It isn't the case all the time. There is a time and place to talk it out.

Better that, than to go stir crazy and do something stupid.

I agree. I offer that outlet for other guys, or I try to. No judgement, just open ears, acceptance, acknowledgement, etc. I don't ask or expect stoicism. Weakness and varying vulnerability is good.

Hard to do it myself anymore, be the weak one. Got/am tired of getting daggers for it, metaphorically, in my back, or directly to my face. Belittled, criticized, tossed aside, shut down.

This journal was difficult enough to write as is. I'm sure it'll just look like complaining, to many

As humans, we have words to talk to one another. Sure it isn't the same as face to face talking on a journal here. or texting, or Discord. the closest you get to that is the voice chat. IT is fine to vent out. Just have to pick where you vent out at. Since often times venting out in public leads to complications.

Venting out to friends and family. Should... Not is, should be the best place to do it. though it seems not many even in families understand this for some reason... Which is probably why the issues arrise in the same place. Besides lacking a foundation.

Not sure how deep to go, I can go deeper if asked.

Oh I'm aware. You can continue if you wish. I'm aware it *should*. Only... dare I express, it's those very same people, who however unintentionally, stab me in the back with any number of the above quotes ' ', aka, forms of gaslighting. This very comment alone, very journal, undoubtedly just looks like bitching, excuses, etc *gasps* more gaslighting.

So, ain't got alot of those, and I am autistic as well. All combined, communication/desire to communicate and bond go *fart noises*. What's the point, what's to discuss

I am aware it is like that for more than just I too. A constant need for masks, toxic self reliance, criticisms from the folks that have our respect creating silence/stoicism

Well the part I will go into is the foundations of a person. Which is wrapped up with Family, Religion, and friends.

not that all of these are needed, but it is good to have a solid base with each. Family to be there for you, Talk to you, maybe give you advise, To maybe bare with you and let you let out the pains you feel, at least verbally. Help you know you are not alone depending on what family is for ya.

Religion to give you a moral foundation to work off of. And with that Moral foundation it makes it so that you can work on and in a society. Cause if we can't aggree on right and wrong then the society goes south fast.

Friends are a bit like family just not as close, they talk with you, maybe share the same views or not as you, they can at least let you know that there is more out there than just emptiness. And keeps you grounded.

Sad to hear that such a base line is not there for you to lean back on.

Mmhmm