By Johni B. read

Posted in Men

To all the men who swim against the tide, thank you.
Your presence, your strength, and your loyalty give me hope. I apologize for the times I wanted to give up on you, for all the times when I believed that no good men existed. As a woman growing up in this culture, I’ve been wounded particularly by boys and their lack of ability to lead, guard, and protect. I’ve walked alone on streets fearing the outcome of my journey. I’ve been the object in the eyes of another’s unwanted gaze. I’ve been led astray and put my trust where it didn’t belong.
However, you have swooped in and banished all lies I hear in my head about the lack of masculinity. You’ve shown me that there are men fighting to be an example to the younger generations of boys who will become men. You have shown me the truth of what I deserve and proven that I desire something deeper -something greater.
The Lord knew that because of my wounds I would need Holy men like you to show me what I’ve been searching for. You’ve raised my standards high and for that I am grateful. I can only imagine the number of souls you have touched throughout your life, the inspiration you have sparked in hearts to strive in virtue.
As your sister in Christ, I thank you for giving me peace. I affirm you in your masculinity, in your strength, in your goodness, in your ability to fight and win.
What lies ahead is going to be a battle, but it’s one you are ready for.
Only you and Christ know the full story of your life, all of the trials you’ve had to overcome, the lessons you have learned along the way. I want you to know how grateful I am to you for placing your trust in the Lord, for accepting your suffering as a gift and never giving up. I know that it’s been hard, I know that at times it may feel like everyone is against you. Please be assured of my prayers for you.
Remember that you are courageous, strong, brave, compassionate, and virtuous. You are wanted, you are needed, you are loved.
I give thanks for all that has formed you into who you are. I give thanks for you.

men • the culture project

About the Author

Johni

Johni is a 2017 graduate from Saint Vincent College with a degree in Biology. She grew up in Belle Vernon where she was an active member in her youth ministry. She was a member of the swim team in both high school and college. Johni learned of The Culture Project through the Theology of the Body sessions at her college hosted by a former missionary, Brother Cassian. Over the course of the year she fell in love with the many messages, but especially the messages of chastity and self-worth. Johni felt the desire to share these messages with others and soon answered God's beckoning to serve others as a CP missionary. "Without these messages of truth, our brothers and sisters in Christ are left in the darkness. I want to aid God in bringing them to the light. I truly believe that this mission will save God's superheroes and together we will change the world."

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