A Journey Through Male Menopause

My name is Frank James Michael Costanza. I am an extrovert, a Christian, a Sagittarius, a believer in the Jungian method of dream analysis, a student and teacher of A Course in Miracles, a student of theology and somewhat of an enigma to those whose lives I touch. I believe in the healing power of prayer and inner work, the strength of Christian morals, Christ's teachings on forgiveness and the tenderness of my feminine side. I have written a journal of my dreams, prayers, poetry, writings and self-analysis over my mid-life years from 1992 through 1998. The result is the book you hold in your hands. After rereading my journey of those several years, I found myself asking the following question. Is Male Menopause a reality? After compilation of the following pages of pain, poetry, prose, dreams and growth I have come to the conclusion that male menopause is a reality. I also believe that heartbreaking mid-life crises can amplify that reality and significant growth, both inner and social, can be accomplished with dedication to the process of self-analysis under the guidance of a caring counselor. I was gifted in this life to have come into the acquaintance of Rev. Dr. Robert Stoudt, my counselor, dream consultant and, most of all, dear friend. My journey through mid-life began with the death of my mother on December 6, 1992. Mom died of a heart attack one week after her and dad's Fiftieth Wedding Anniversary Celebration, a gala event with family friends and renewal of wedding vows. I stood in as dad's best man for the ceremony. It was a memorable party with great fun and laughter. Mom and dad danced the day away with the grace of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers. Ten days later mom was laid to rest on my 47th birthday.