SPOILER ALERT: This writing is from a woman’s POV. Naturally, it will be filled with women’s feelings and thoughts. If man can’t relate, don’t blame me. Just enjoy, as maybe you can take something from it. Many thanks!
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“This is not fair. At all. Why am I the one who has to take care of everything? And always gets blamed for? It’s our child. Not only mine. He is also their father. He should be responsible too. I know he is making money for us, but I need him to raise our kids together, not just throw it away to me and then blame me if something goes wrong with our kids. I already have so much on my plate as his wife. I have to do this, I have to do that. Now, I have to take all the responsibility for our kids? It’s killing me inside. Sometimes I feel that I can’t handle it anymore. I’m tired of all of these.” She shed her tears, then wiped them with a tissue while she leaned her body on a chair. I can feel frustration hanging in the air. A feeling when you have no way out. Stuck. I understand my friend’s feeling, unconsciously exhales deeply. I feel sad for her.
It’s hard being a woman. Isn’t it? We must face the expectations of the society. More over, if we are a wife and a mom. There are certain strict and stereotypical ideas about what it means to be a woman. Which can be difficult to follow.
If they are ambitious, they’re called “too aggressive”,
if they’re reserved, they’re “too weak,
“If they are outspoken, they’re seen as “bossy”,
if they stay quiet, they’re “not confident enough.”
When men age, they are seen as “distinguished”; But when women age they are judged for “letting themselves go.” Even by fellow women!
Women are often expected to look, act, or behave in certain ways, such as nurturing, submissive, and domestic. And these expectations can be both limiting and burdensome. But at the same time, many women play multiple roles. Become a wife/partner, mom, and also breadwinner to the family. Not to mention, women are often held to unrealistic beauty standards, which can lead to body dissatisfaction and low self-esteem. Not only that, sometimes society punishes women too hard. Women being valued only by physical appearance, not by their intellect, skills, and accomplishments. But don’t you worry, I won’t go further into gender equality. The topic needs a complex and comprehensive explanation. And, I feel that it’s not my role to say it, I’m not an expert.
Back to the reasons why it’s hard being a woman I’ve mentioned earlier. In the end, it will make a woman exhausting and draining. Because women are often expected to manage emotions, both their own and others’. Women are often socialized to prioritize others’ emotions and needs over their own. They can’t prioritize their own emotional well-being. Women are pushed hard by society, even in some points they can’t handle it anymore. I’m not saying this happens to all society and households, as I know many that are not like this. Who treats women nicer and better, so they can breathe freely in this beautiful world.
But here’s the good thing. Because of being a woman full of challenges, eventually in the end, it also brings incredible strengths, joy, wisdom, and power. We endure a lot. Physically, mentally, and emotionally. Yet they rise stronger every time. There were so many stories we heard or saw, women often show incredible perseverance and resilience when overcoming societal pressures or personal struggles. When it comes to intuition and sensitivity, we are the best! Many women have a deep sense of intuition and sensitivity, which helps us navigate relationships and situations with empathy and wisdom. It’s a gift from Above. This emotional intelligence strengthens all kinds of relationships. Whether it’s friendship, families, or workplaces. More over, if it’s a female relationship, whether it’s a sister, a mother, a daughter, best friend, mentor, or else. The relationship will be powerful and filled with understanding, encouragement, and love.
There’s a beauty in diversity in a woman. Women come in all shapes, sizes, and personalities. Its uniqueness is a strength, whether she is tall, bold and outspoken or small, quiet and reflective. And it will lead to a success story in every area. Sports, politics, business, science, arts, and many more. It’s a proof of women’s strength and determination. It’s a Power that will inspire another woman to do the same. Women inspire women! There’s something radiant about a woman’s confidence, kindness, and intelligence. True beauty comes within. We can express it in many ways. Do what we think it’s good. Remember what I’ve said before, we have that power. The intuition, and sensitivity to distinguish what is good or not.
Sure, it’s challenging being a woman, we are still struggling, that’s why we have to learn to love ourselves. Set boundaries by learning to say No and don’t be a people-pleaser. Prioritize self-care by making time for activities that will nourish our emotional well-being. Communicate our needs and boundaries clearly and openly. And seek support if we need it. But even though it’s challenging, being a woman also comes in the joyful package. There’s so much to celebrate. Not to mention, we bring life into the world. And even those who don’t become mothers, often have a natural ability to nurture and care for others in a beautiful and meaningful way. Being a woman is powerful, beautiful and meaningful. Cheer up my fellow ladies! As we are blessed from Above to be here in this world.
Love,
Kirana
