now shipping 🌹. HWT I + HWT II
signed copies.
 
he was taught to be this way. revised edition
 
revised from the first edition. this version is smaller in book size. has guided questions following each chapter. space to reflect. and activities to consider along the way.
 
this is by far the most challenging book project i have ever created. in full transparency it has taken me five years to curate and what is inside these pages is my complete heart and soul. there is very little white space as each page from top to bottom has words for each reader to dive into. no one-liners. no short prose. 99% of the words in this volume have never been posted.he was taught to be this way. is an exploration into the question of what it means to be a man. it unpacks and wrestles with masculinity while simultaneously explores insight and inquiry into why men do certain things consciously and unconsciously. having collected hundreds of questions and stories over the years, adrian michael beautifully arranged and bound this project into chapter themes using the king, warrior, magician, lover framework. he was taught to be this way. is an argument and an invitation for anyone interested in self-discovery and growth. 
 
it is highly encouraged to push back and be in conversation with what this book addresses within yourself and in community with others. there is no handbook or guide on how to be a man. may this book be the roadmap that serves as one.
 
193 pages
 
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he was taught to be this way. II
 
the prequel to he was taught to be this way.
 
personal reflections from childhood, adolescence and adulthood, this collection takes you on an inward journey and encourages you to sift through and explore your own relationships and lessons you've gathered through a four-part framework that meets you where you are to offer unconditional love. comfort. salve. and a sense of belonging. as mentioned in HWTII: we are all healing from someone. and this book is your gentle invitation to lean into your past. unpack what may be holding you back. bring to light the joys and gems in your life. and take steps towards the better version of you.
 
loaded with over 155 insights mixed with learning and unlearnings. experiences. and resources as guide you'll also find 120 guided questions to sit with and explore further on your path of self-acceptance. growth. love. and healing.
 
in HWTII you will stumble across stories. essays. lists. prose. poems. unpoems. thoughts. responses. and tools to encourage engagement and curiosity about what it means to be you. although this series is from the lens of masculinity it is for anyone interested in humanity and being a better person for yourself and others.
 
in HWTII you will find notes on dealing with loss, divorce, miscarriage, sex education, modern technology, patriarchy, feminism, what it means to be a man, vulnerability, grief, heartbreak, dad privilege, male privilege, relationship advice, mental health, forgiveness, love, and more.  
 
HWTII is adrian michael's 21st self-published title.