It's sad when a child (or anyone) is forced to be someone they are not. I have raised 5 sons (one of which is a clan member and two others play on our servers), and all were (and are) encouraged to be who they are. Each has their own sets of likes and dislikes, and we do not put them down. I, too, have told them to "Be a man" and I think there is a right use of this phrase: Be a man (or woman) and: 1. Be truthful 2. Show Humility, Kindness and Respect for all life 3. Be willing to work for the things you want - yeah baby- work 4. Take care of your family 5. Refuse to compromise on what you know is right 6. Take Responsibility for your actions 7. Love people, and allow yourself to be loved 8. Refuse to hate. 9. Give back to your country and community 10. Serve God as He would lead you My son's have been challenged to be men, as are my grandsons. They have examples that lead them in that direction. Do we cry? You bet we do. Do we hug? You bet we do. Some have long hair and some short hair (and some are bald like me ). As a children's teacher and pastor for over 20 years, the confusion comes when our boys (and girls) have no roll models to look up to. The answer? Parents need to set standards, demonstrate them to their kids, and be positive. Hug them, kiss them and yes, discipline them. Teach them by your actions, not your words. Most importantly, make time everyday to listen to them. Maybe if the parents take off their masks - the kids will no longer feel the need to wear one. LandSharkXI