A man invites you inside his thought process. Here are some insights from a husband who defines himself as unemotional.

I do not understand emotions.
Not mine or yours.
Emotions were irrelevant when I was growing up.
Working and staying quiet was all that mattered.
So, today as an adult, I can’t express my feelings.
When you turn on your emotions, I experience a strong need to shut down.
So, I stop listening and stare off.
I retreat into survival mode.
At that point, there is no more understanding or engagement.
You and the conversation have become noise.
All I hear is the pain in your voice.
It screams at me.
Then, I then remind myself that I am a failure.
I hate disappointing you.
You use emotions freely, passionately, and colorfully.
All I hear is pain, hurt, and disappointment.
I do not understand the purpose of emotions.
You expect me to be emotionally mature, insightful, and fluid.
The truth is, I frequently balance between awkwardness and clumsy.
That is the best I can do.
But, I am very good at two things-work and numb.

-Mr. Unemotional

Prayer

Father, I love you. And, I hear you are never disappointed, let-down, or hurt by me. I’m told your love covers all my failings and shortcomings. I’ve experienced disappointment and failure all my life. And, I hate feeling it. So, long ago, I stopped feeling. Today I need your help understanding feelings. Amen.

Meditate on this thought

God so loves and wants you that he sent Jesus. The sacrifice of Jesus covers all your sins and failures. ALL of them. God so loves you. Read 1 John 4:10.