A Letter to Men
A poetry submission by Michael Vichiola, BU class of 2025, Christian studies.
Dear friends, I hope the timing finds you well as you open up this note, and are preparing to continue to grow in him, as mature loving men. So I must express my thanks, for your eagerness to know, that what is about to be said, speaks in all fullness but is far from done. In return, we ask that you truly love that special someone, and cherish these words for future times to come.
When God created man, he created a spitting image of himself, as simple as can be. But then the man fell asleep, and God took the rib, which man no longer got to keep, then he made a woman to be his companion, which we shall try to see.
But we’re not stopping here, you must listen, for there is still more to share beyond your understanding.
As this note continues, you might be formulating the simplest of a question, in wonder of which direction the note will go to aid in your reflection.
When God brings that special someone into your life, you could feel so relieved that you’ll want to spread your wings and fly across the cove, wrapped around his peace like a glove, which you both begin to love one another, a simple command from Jesus Christ, son of God the Father.
You must also understand, that there may be a time to wait. This you may not like, and you could be filled with hate or rage, but know this, he knows you well, especially at your age. So “Wait for the Lord and feed your heart courage.”[1]
I also wish to prepare you for when the hope crashes into the ground, when she says no, and all feels lost. But you’re determined to discover it, so it is once again found.
God knows your heart, which beats in patience, and he’s there always, giving full confidence.
Now you’re prepared to understand, in his time, you will feel the blessing of her hand. As the hands move on the clock, every tock it makes can cause your knees to shake as they act in fear.
It makes you wonder if another wait is too late, or if one more word transforms into a forever hate.
I can say that you’ll think this sounds meticulous, but in reality, this shows signs of anxiousness. Even I myself have the fear of a mutilated rejection.
But then will come the moment of connection, which is “far more precious than jewels,”[2] when your eyes open the floodgates and so will hers.
The joy you receive is what provides the fuel, and then your journey together can begin.
Do also understand, fellow men, that every step you both ever take will give birth to temptation. It slithers like a snake, its fangs sharper than a blood dripped razor. So remember this and listen to God very carefully, come together as a whole, holding fast to daily prayer.
Only now can I confess, that the words are running out of the tank. So to end this note, one more thing is left to say, to those who made it this far. There will be a day when you think you’re ready to get down on one knee and propose. To share your talents and gifts, with the one who knows. As you get down to hear a yes or no, remember that she is yet one part of your story, when a new chapter follows.
In the profound unity within God’s sight, keep your bed undefiled and clean[3], for there is nothing that he can’t see, because he knows everything.
Only by listening to him can you enjoy her fully, even into the late hours of the night.
Before you put this note down and depart, one more thing you need to know, from God alone, who should always be first place in your heart.
Be the head of the family, and protect them as much as possible from suffering, for your special someone is the “weaker vessel, hearing with you to the grace of life.”[4] Do this to the best of your ability.
Read and teach from the Bible every day. Even you need a daily replenishing of his wisdom, a reminder of where all strength comes from that is open and free.
At this I pray that you heed these words, and let God be your guide. No battle can be done alone, not without a sword.
So know one last thing, fellow men, that you are to always be in prayer, when God gives you that special someone, who you’d call your everything.
As seasons change and bring in new life that is colorful, every word can bring her closer, until all God sees is one beautiful unity.
[1] Psalms 27:14 ESV paraphrased
[2] Proverbs 3:15 ESV
[3] Hebrews 13:4 ESV paraphrased
[4] 1 Peter 3:7 ESV
A poetry submission by Michael Vichiola, BU class of 2025, Christian studies.