The term feminism evokes many emotions from different people. Some understand feminism as the movement that liberated women from the cages of their houses and from the underfoot of their husbands. While others see it as the demon that destroyed the structure of the family and deteriorated the dynamics of society's moral fiber. Where do I fall on the line? First let us define the term feminism :
1. the doctrine advocating social, political, and all other rights of women equal to those of men.
2. an organized movement for the attainment of such rights for women.
With that being said, I am a woman who advocates for the rights of woman to be equal to those of men. Why did I not simply say whether I am a feminist or not?
The term feminism/feminist has taken a different definition than what was intended. Somewhere in the interpretation of the definition society has determined that you can not be a feminist and embrace the unique differences and roles that makes a woman a woman. It seems that you can not be a feminist and be a strong, non- religious, Christian. You can not be a feminist and be submissive to your husband. You can not be a feminist and not be ok with women dressing anyway she wants no matter how un-modest it is. You can not be a feminist and be an at home wife and mother. You can not be a feminist and have control over your own body to not spread it around. You can not be a feminist and really live for Jesus. I thought the whole point was to have choices that allowed you to be free and to be the authentic and happy you?
I understand how religion has been and still is used to oppress women. A woman's value is placed under a man's but right above cattle. I thank God everyday I am not caught up in religion! God and His word (the bible) is not in the business of religion but relationship! Starting at the creation of woman, God valued us so much that the man was not worthy enough to witness the God - like creation of us! So he slept. Women were used throughout the bible as leaders, game changers and ministers ( e.g. Esther, Deborah, Rehab, Aquilla). Jesus validated and elevated the value of women during His earthly ministry. He validated the valueless, like Mary Magdeline. He saved the unforgivable like the woman caught in adultery. He healed the untouchable like the woman with the issue of blood. He showed the glory of His resurrection first to the women of His ministry, not the men!
Do I choose feminism? I choose to lead my life by the guidance of the one who created me with purpose. I choose not to be confined by the opinions of society, but be free under divine right. I choose to be an advocate for all women to lead their lives into true happiness in their family, career, education, ministry, and purpose. What do you choose?
Great site. I love your second to last paragraph that gives examples of notable women who show how much God values women. I think we get caught up in titles such as mother, professional, wife. They're all sub sets under child of God & ultimately that's what feminist & non-feminist are. I definitely agree with your points 100% and definitely see the many layers to this topic.
ReplyDeleteYes! We even see it in the Proverbs 31 woman. She has many layers to her, mother, wife, business owner, manager. God did not create us to to be in boxes!
DeleteBAHAHAHA! Love the line about man sleeping while God did the creating! Awesome! And I'm with you!
ReplyDeleteIt is really mind blowing when you think about it!
DeleteI really love this post.. I am often asked by coworkers,and friends, If I am a feminist? truth be told I am always angry when I am asked this question. why cant a lady be anything she wants. I understand and know well the role. I will have one day as a wife.. But I also enjoy setting career goals,that are nontraditional for women in my culture. I also enjoy fixing broken things and home improvement work, and occasionally I like to play soccer. I cook clean etc.What is wrong with being versatile? I am sooooo with you.
ReplyDeleteYes!
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