There's such a stigma attached to being a "feminist." So many stereotypes... so many judgments and faulty conceptions. Well, too bad because I can't hide it anymore...
Females are oppressed, blatantly... and most of us women (or men) are too scared to speak out about it because of "what people might think." Well, let's not complain about something that, by small changes, could be drastically ratified.
I was recommended a book that opened my eyes to the harshness that females are endured during their life. Seeing as though I am a woman, I could not know the pressures that men face... but it cannot be as bad as women's pressure. (The book is called Reviving Ophelia if you are interested).
We are supposed to be "dependent, docile (willing to be taught or led -- AKA a follower), & quiet." I am not one of those things & I am so proud of it. I see these traits in girls around me... in my classes... where they are shy & sheepish to say what they really want to. Whereas the men prance around with gleaming arrogance that shines like confidence, but smells like disrespect. Men are supposed to be funny & women are supposed to laugh.
Maybe this is why I haven't had a boyfriend as of yet. My strength, my total & complete unwillingness to conform to how a "woman should be." I'm funny, I'm strong, I'm opinionated, I'm a leader, I'm intelligent, I'm confident & am not about to hide any of these things in order to impress a man. If I end up alone, then I will be as happy as a peach (if peaches are REALLY happy that is).
Sure, love sounds amazing and I would LOVE to fall in LOVE, but if falling in love means I downplay my best qualities... then love ain't for me, baby. I always thought it funny when a man had a girlfriend who would just agree with him and laugh at anything he said, even if it was ridiculously idiotic. This type of girl would be shy, agreeable, and easily influenced. How did she get that way? I don't BLAME her for this... I feel sorry for her. I want her beautiful side to come through... her strength... her laughter... and her own sense of humor.
Us women all have it in us to stand up & be proud of the women we are. We don't need men to define us. We don't need their attention to feel beautiful. We don't need our vulnerability to be worn like a t-shirt.
As women we are brave and aspiring. Dream-filled & gentle. Loving & nurturing.
It's time we go against the tide, swim a different route & be the women we were born to be.
