Feminism
Feminism, by definition, is the advocacy of women's rights on the ground of the equality of the sexes. It's thrown around a lot these days. I'm both grateful and curious. I'm all for equality and I think it should be for each gender and every race. I actually really hate when anyone is ill treated. However, since I am a woman I will speak from experience.
Emma Watson was at a United Nations Meeting and I remember her talking about how both "men and women should feel free to be sensitive. Both men and women should feel free to be strong… It is time that we all perceive gender on a spectrum not as two opposing sets of ideals." I have to agree with this. But this is more about Gender Equality (how she put it). So where does Feminism fit into that?
I'm an old fashioned woman. I don't think that surprises anyone. I have dipped my toes into the modern world and I don't mind parts of it but when it comes to gender roles, I like the old fashioned roles but I'm not in love with them. I think that women should be able to do what they want to do. And I think the same for men. But, in order to do everything that women and men both want to do, there has to be compromise and thus, sacrifice.
But getting down to the facts, I think it's absolute rubbish that women don't get paid the same as men. Nowadays there often needs to be two working parents to even make a go of it. Life is expensive! I love watching moms have a career and kids. It's inspirational! I have a few important women in my life who are great examples of this. They find a way to live within three of their callings (career, wife, and mother) and balance it all. I can't understand it but I admire them completely.
So women, I want to encourage you. If your calling is being a stay-at-home mom, do it to the best of your ability, even during the mucky days. If your loving your career and you feel your place is there, do it big! And if you're doing both, you're amazing! But remember who you represent. You represent the Lord in whatever you do so it's completely natural to want to be the best. Just remember to have some grace for yourself.
Love & Prayers,
Lauren xo