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Writer's pictureAntonietta McGoey

Boy to Man: My Mental Health Journey by Will Baptiste


“When the boy is healed the man will appear.” This phrase may have different meanings depending on the context in which it is used. It could be interpreted as a metaphor for personal growth or development, where the “boy” represents a less mature or inexperienced version of oneself, and the “man” represents a more mature or experienced version. In this context, it suggests that as a person overcomes obstacles or challenges, they will become stronger and more capable.


It could also be interpreted as a religious or spiritual message, where the “boy” represents a person before they have found faith or enlightenment, and the “man” represents a person who has achieved spiritual growth. In this context, it suggests that as a person finds spiritual healing, they will become a better person.


However, for myself, I have recognized that this healing journey from a boy to a man has three critical stages. They are the following:
Stage 1: Self-Awareness
Stage 2: Be Present
Stage 3: Seek Help

Stage 1: Self-Awareness. Self-awareness is the first step toward healing. Being aware of where you are, how you feel, and why you feel that way. Feeling it all; the good, the bad, and the ugly, as well as the painful and the uncomfortable.


Stage 2: Be Present. In order to learn to live life for oneself as well as be mentally and spiritually healthy, one must be present in the moment. What is for you will come to you. One doesn't have to chase peace, love, or joy as they heal - these virtues will come. The amazing characteristics that I desired to possess came into existence when I finally let go and began to feel! It is time to listen to the alarms the body is sounding. You feel them deep inside of you. It’s time to let go of the need to compare your life to other people’s and be present in your own.


Stage 3: Seek Help. Once someone is aware of where they are in their healing journey and have accepted that the past cannot be changed, it’s time for them to take action. SEEK HELP! Needing help is not a sign of weakness. The strongest thing a man can do is acknowledge the areas in his life where he is powerless and cannot fix on his own. That’s when the real work begins. Taking action is a matter of choice. It was a decision that I once faced and it has been one of the greatest decisions of my life. I had to make a concerted effort to heal. I had to take concrete, deliberate action to find my own Will To Rise. If I can find success in this journey, then so can you. You can and will rise if you are willing to put in the work.


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Peg Rinkenberger
Apr 03, 2023

Lovely reads. Thank you!

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