John Price, a depth psychotherapist and host of "The Sacred Speaks," discusses the evolving landscape of masculinity and spirituality. He challenges traditional definitions of masculinity, urging men to explore their inner lives rather than superficial identities. Price envisions rites of passage that honor both masculine and feminine qualities. He emphasizes the need for emotional vulnerability and community support among men while addressing gender dynamics and the importance of shared human experiences in fostering deeper connections.
Establishing intimacy within a supportive community is essential for men's emotional health and fosters deeper understanding and openness.
John Price highlights the cultural crisis men face regarding emotional expression, often resulting from rigid societal norms surrounding masculinity.
The podcast advocates for rites of passage that honor both masculine and feminine qualities, encouraging personal growth and societal contribution.
Deep dives
The Importance of Intimacy for Men
Establishing intimacy is crucial for men's emotional health and well-being. It involves creating deep connections within a community that fosters understanding and openness. John Price emphasizes the need to move beyond superficial discussions about feelings to delve into men's inner lives, allowing them a safe space to express vulnerability and connection. By addressing emotional struggles in group settings, men can develop a stronger sense of identity and support.
Cultural Crisis of Masculinity
There is a growing recognition of a cultural crisis surrounding boys and men, marked by an inability to express their emotional inner lives. Price observes that many men struggle with understanding their emotional experiences due to societal expectations of masculinity. This discomfort often leads to projection of their internal conflicts onto women and cultural critiques. The conversation challenges the need for men to engage with their feminine aspects and to redefine masculinity in a way that embraces vulnerability.
Rites of Passage for Men
The podcast discusses the necessity for rites of passage that honor both the masculine and feminine within individuals. Price envisions communal processes where men can be initiated into their true selves and learn to contribute positively to society. This includes creating spaces that allow men to engage with nature and participate in shared experiences that lead to personal growth. Reviving these rites could help men navigate their identities in a culture that often marginalizes emotional expression.
Redefining Spirituality and Intimacy
Price provides a working definition of spirituality that emphasizes an evolving dialogue with nature and the search for meaning in everyday experiences. He believes that spirituality invites individuals to explore the interconnectedness of their inner and outer lives. This perspective encourages men to breach the divide between spiritual concepts and practical emotional work in their relationships. Understanding spirituality as both transcendent and imminent can guide men in navigating their emotional landscapes.
Building Community Among Men
Creating small, safe communities for men to share experiences is vital for personal development and emotional healing. Price notes that these groups can enact profound transformations by allowing men to connect and bond over shared vulnerabilities. Men often need spaces where they can express their emotional lives without fear of judgment or societal expectations. By fostering relationships with other men, they can cultivate richer, more meaningful connections in all areas of their lives.
John Price, PhD, is a depth psychotherapist, the host of the podcast The Sacred Speaks, and co-director and co-owner of The Center for the Healing Arts and Sciences in Houston. He shares his approach to spirituality, to bringing men into meaningful community, and to establishing intimacy. We talk about: Why it’s problematic that boys and men have largely defined themselves by what they’re not. Why he asks men about their inner lives as opposed to their feelings. And what it might look like if we had rites of passage that honored the masculine and the feminine within each of us, in truly unique ways.