Highlights

Men’s Circle Highlight: “You Don’t Have to Be John Henry”

At our weekly Men’s Meeting this month, we circled around a brother in his 30s whose story hit home for many of us. He sat with quiet strength, and when he spoke, his words carried the weight of years spent holding everything and everyone together.

He shared how he had been everything for his children and his wife—provider, protector, peacekeeper. When his wife passed away, he found himself shouldering not just his own grief, but the pain of his children and the pressures of life as a single father. He tried to rebuild, entering into a new relationship, hoping for a fresh start. But that relationship didn’t work out either. And somewhere along the way, he realized he had lost himself.

“I don’t even know how to pull it all together anymore,” he said. “I’ve been carrying everybody for so long, I forgot who I was.”

As he spoke, the room grew quiet in a way that only happens when men truly listen. Then three of the elder brothers in the circle stepped forward with words of wisdom—offered not as advice, but as lived truth. They reminded him that he didn’t have to be John Henry, the man who died with a hammer in his hand, trying to outwork a machine. They told him: “You need to put your mask on first. You deserve breath. You deserve joy.”

You could feel something shift in him. By the end of our time together, he was lighter. You could see it in his face, in his posture. He stood up, hugged each of us, and thanked the group over and over. “I needed this,” he said. “I didn’t know how much I needed this.”

This is why we do this work.
This is why we show up.

Because sometimes, all a man needs is a room full of brothers to remind him to take care of himself first.

📚Books to Read

Ego Is the Enemy by Ryan Holiday
A masterclass on how to quiet the ego and focus on what really matters—personal growth, humility, and purpose.
The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck by Mark Manson
A no-nonsense approach to letting go of what drains you and focusing on what truly adds value to your life.
The Unplugged Alpha by Richard Cooper
A direct and practical guide for men to reclaim their confidence, set boundaries, and take charge of their lives.

🛑One Simple Step

This week, take 30 minutes just for you.
No distractions. No responsibilities. Use that time to move your body—go for a walk, stretch, or hit the gym. As you move, ask yourself one question:

"What do I need right now?"

Listen to the answer.
Because being strong isn’t about carrying everything—it’s about knowing when to put something down and take care of yourself first.

🎥 Podcasts & Youtube

The Roger Report Live
Deep conversations and insight for men navigating relationships, self-development, and legacy building. https://www.youtube.com/@therogerreportlive
BGS IBMOR Wisdom and mentorship for Black men focused on empowerment, knowledge, and navigating the modern world. https://www.youtube.com/@BGSIBMOR
Psych Hacks Better Living Through Psychology. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSduXBjCHkLoo_y9ss2xzXw

👉 Join Us Every Week

Our Men’s Meeting is open to any man looking for connection, reflection, and real talk. We meet every Wednesday at 6:30pm. There’s always a seat at the table, and you’re welcome here.

Consult Cadence Solutions