Wholesome video of a young singer captures an inspiring example of healthy masculinity in action

With predefined notions of how people should behave, the idea of freedom becomes blurred in society. In terms of masculinity, young boys are often channeled to behave tough and hardcore. They are encouraged to ride bikes, play with cars, wear suits, and practice sports. What they truly desire is often buried under societal pressure. Nevertheless, glimpses of hope all around show that being true to oneself is what truly matters. Erin Spahr, a mom of two boys who goes by @feminine.mom.therapist on Instagram, shared an example of healthy masculinity through a video showcasing what building young people looks like. It’s a shoutout to exercising healthy and free masculinity. 

The video featured a group of young boys at a basketball court, with a couple of older men standing behind them. Among them was Charlie, a young boy with a gorgeous, deep, and elegant voice. He confidently began singing Teddy Swims’ “Lose Control,” projecting his voice loud and clear. With remarkable depth, Charlie showed no fear or shyness as he proudly shared his melody in front of his friends. While he showcased his unique talent, his friends cheered him on, intently listening and supporting him throughout. Though awkward at first, the boys soon moved closer to Charlie, surrounding and supporting him. Not only his friends, but even the older men pulled out their phones to record and cheer for the young boy as he delivered a jaw-dropping performance.

With every note pitched to perfection, the variations and lyrics were spot-on. They spared no effort to hype him up and acknowledge his precious talent. “If you know boys this age, you understand how vulnerable this is,” Erin wrote in the text overlay. “How beautiful it is to see them rally around him in support.” Teenage boys often grapple with their identities while navigating the complexities of masculinity. These young boys stepped out of their comfort zones to support the brave teenager and embrace his talent, even though it didn’t conform to society’s stereotypical standards. The teenagers present on the court learned the essence of true and positive masculinity: being yourself and having no shame or fear in showcasing your unique abilities.

The video concluded with resounding applause for the boy, accompanied by high-fives, handshakes, smiles and cheers. The video of Charlie's video was originally shared online by the Instagram page of 205hoops with the caption, "Today at camp, one of the coolest moments happened. Charlie Campbell absolutely shut it down, and our Hoopers absolutely loved it. @teddyswims needs to hear this. This is what being in the Hoops Fam is about."

People were moved to tears by the healthy acceptance and united spirit the boys displayed. @radical.homemaker wrote, “It was interesting to see how the boys were into it but also like making sure it was okay to be into it. Great job whatever adults were modeling and holding space for this!” @ebkuehl added, “Big bows to the men who held this space for him to shine.” @brettclaywell remarked, “Men in the room. Raise boys like this.” @chancelot_spamsalot shared, "Man, I teach fifth graders every day and they are TERRIFIED of showing that they are interested in *anything* other than sports. You dudes are doing really important stuff. They’ll remember this, and they clearly have some great role models here."

You can follow Erin Spahr (@feminist.mom.therapist) on Instagram for more wholesome content on parenting and 205HOOPS (@205hoops) for updates on how the sports club is creating generational change through basketball.