The truth is, you wouldn’t want to
live without them. We are a gift and a
blessing that is not always recognized.
During this past election season my
son asked me to comment on one of this FB posts regarding statements being made
by politicians about women’s issues. He wanted to know how women can accept the
place they have been given and the attempts to hold them there.
It seems no matter where we look in history – secular or religious history – women have been oppressed.They have been told they are to serve their male counterparts, to direct attention away from themselves and toward their betters; their physical bodies are what is of value giving pleasure to men and being the needed instrument to bring forth the next king to the realm.We have been told to walk behind our masters, to remain silent and to do the same work for less pay.
I never thought of myself as a
feminist. During the 60s I saw feminism
as a very confrontational, aggressive Gloria Steinem. Oh, I did support the “bra burning” but that
was more my hippy side than my feminist side.
I didn’t want to wear a bra!
My own mother was an interesting mix
of traditionalism and feminism. She did
the house cleaning, cooking, parenting and laundry. She taught me dad always gets the best cut of
meat and if he wants bread with dinner, you get up and get it. I really didn’t see the feminist aspect of
the life being modeled to me until my own daughter pointed it out. One day while driving in downtown Seattle, I
was telling Melanie about my new found feminist position. She said, “What are you talking about? You
raised me to be a feminist.” She went on to point out that my own mother owned not
only one business but, even during retirement, continued to start small
businesses not only to contribute to the household finances but because she
loved working and people and challenges. How could I have not recognized all of
this while growing up? Probably because
she emphasized that in our home, my dad was still central.
I wonder if in my lifetime I will see
true equality and justice for women? I’m
not sure I could even describe what that would look like. Maybe it is improving, but until we no longer
hear reports of sex trafficking, struggling single moms, unequal pay and
recognition in the workplace, we are still far off the mark.
Men- be aware, be active in your view
of these wonderful feminine (no that’s not a derogatory word) gifts around you.
Women-be bold regarding your opinions
of both yourself and the world around you.
As with so many things in this life,
awareness is the beginning of the change.
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