Emotions change like the seasons, sometimes blooming like spring flowers, sometimes rustling like autumn winds. For men, interactions with the opposite sex are not just about emotional exchange but also catalysts for personal growth. However, when a man lingers on the edge of emotions, avoiding contact with the opposite sex, his world gradually becomes veiled behind an invisible curtain. Over time, three distinct characteristics may emerge, akin to indelible marks left by passing years.
1. Appearance – Sloppy
“Neat and elegant, graceful and poised,” these were praises of a gentleman’s demeanor in the past. However, when a man distances himself from the gaze and care of the opposite sex for a long time, his outward appearance often becomes less meticulous. No longer dressing up to catch someone’s eye, no longer carefully selecting clothes to spend time with a cherished one, the trivialities of life slowly erode his concern for appearance.
Just like the BuendÃa family members in “One Hundred Years of Solitude” gradually forgot the external aesthetic standards due to loneliness, men who avoid contact with the opposite sex may, in the monotony of daily solitude, neglect the shaping of their self-image. Their clothes may no longer fit well, hairstyles may seem disheveled, the sparkle born of love might fade from their eyes, replaced by a weariness etched by life’s struggles.
“Appearance is the mirror of the soul.” This adage takes on a different meaning in their case—not due to indifference but because the once careful regard has faded with the loss of emotions.
2. Personality – Dominant and irritable
Emotional absence can unwittingly alter a person’s personality. Men who refrain from interacting with the opposite sex for a prolonged period may develop a harder demeanor, sometimes tinged with imperceptible outbursts. In social interactions, they might exhibit a dominant side, attempting to conceal their inner vulnerability and unease through forcefulness.
“Loneliness is the poison of the soul.” Loneliness may desensitize and trigger irritability in them. Unintentionally erupting in anger toward those around them, they use a domineering facade to mask their inner helplessness and yearning. Beneath this dominance lies a deep desire for warmth and understanding.
In the movie “The Shawshank Redemption,” Andy never abandoned his yearning for freedom despite being in prison. Similarly, men who avoid contact with the opposite sex also long for emotional connections that provide solace to their souls. They simply might not have found the right way to express and pursue it.
3. Lifestyle – Isolated and destitute
Emotions are the seasoning of life, adding richness and vibrancy to our existence. Yet, when a man refrains from contact with the opposite sex for a prolonged period, life often becomes monotonous and dull, sometimes spiraling into isolation and destitution.
They might become accustomed to solitary living, embracing loneliness in the quiet of night. However, this loneliness is not their choice. They too yearn for someone to lean on in weariness and to share joys with. Yet, the emotional connection that was once within reach now seems distant.
“Love is the flame of life; without it, everything turns into darkness.” Shakespeare’s words vividly highlight the importance of emotions in life. Men who avoid contact with the opposite sex may resemble travelers in the dark, yearning for light but unable to find the guiding star.
In this intricate world, each person is a unique entity. However strong and independent we may seem, there is always a deep-seated longing for emotions. For men who avoid contact with the opposite sex, they might be on a challenging journey; but believe that by bravely embracing this colorful world, by forging sincere emotional connections with the opposite sex, their world can transform.
Love and friendship are the most precious treasures in life. They not only nurture and enrich our souls but also ensure we are not alone on life’s journey. May every man find their emotional haven and make life more beautiful with love.
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