The stories we tell ourselves

If you're female, and are told to keep it in, it's male oppression. You have to be a good girl, to find a good suitor.

If you're male, and are told to keep it in, it's because it's your lot as a Man. You can't show weakness to others, and must be strong for a prospective partner. They need a rock to rely on.

If you and your friends are refused entry to a new bar, it's because they wouldn't let your friend in because he's black. It doesn't matter if you looked like (or were) on drugs, or too drunk, or they had a dress code.

A situation reframed with suffering, or outrage.

Much more palatable.

But maybe we miss the mark.

And re doomed to replay,

instead of fixing,

or moving on