In a society of stereotypes, trying to fit into one of them is far more difficult than solving a Math problem in class. You might find yourself nodding and smiling. But, if you're a lady, tell me, couldn't you agree more?
Growing up with judgmental people has conditioned me to meet their expectations. Yes, I am one of those women who always feel the need to be flawless all of the time.
We cannot deny that people have much higher expectations of women than of men. As the elders may say, women must be intellectual, graceful, and demure—always prim and proper.
The life of a woman is hard in so many ways.
Women are often judged by their actions, which deviate from traditional norms.
Let me give you an example.
You're walking home when you notice a man smoking a cigarette. You cast a glance at the man before turning away. You don't mind because it appears normal to you. As you continue walking, you come across a group of women, each holding a cigar. Your brow furrows at the sight of it believing that something is flawed.
Now, aren't you a judgmental one?
It's not that women should be allowed to smoke, but why should women be judged for doing wrong when men can do so freely? Isn't it unfair?
Are you getting it now?
Being a woman is hard because we worry about a lot of things since society tells us to.
They will label you as lazy and unmotivated if you are unemployed. They will tell you that if you work hard to earn money, you deserve to be a housewife. They will look at you with disgust if you wear revealing clothes, thinking you're a slut. They will accuse you of acting pure if you are overly covered up. The list goes on and on.
People will always find ways to criticize and belittle a woman who is simply trying to live a normal life, no matter what she does.
Hey woman, aren't you sick and tired of living the image that the public has created for you?
Sometimes I wonder why freedom exists when it’s not for us women, to enjoy.
But, my dear lovely women, please remember that we were not born into this world to live by other people's standards. Opposing their aspirations for us may be difficult, but we must do so for our own needs and rights.
We need to go out of our shells and be confident of what God made us.
We must embrace our beauty and characteristics, regardless of the layers of fat and baggy clothes. We must speak up and make women's voices heard. We need to have fun and be wild now and then. We must be granted the same rights as men. Most importantly, we must be free of judgment and criticism.
Women must not lose sight of their own strength. And because they are powerful, they must learn to create their own image. They must make an effort to live with integrity. They must learn to seek and live for the truth within themselves.