My Femininity Is My Strength Not A Weakness

By Kiran Shahid

In the 21st Century, we as a society have become more divided on matters than ever. Things that were once common sense and a norm have begun getting challenged by our ever-evolving society. On one hand, this is a good thing as there are a lot of toxic elements embedded in the culture that need to be unlearned and corrected moving forward. However, on the other side of the coin, we find that such drastic cultural shifts move us away from our core and sometimes even nature.

We currently live in a cut-throat Capitalist Post-Modern Society where materialism is valued over genuine human courtesy. In such conditions, women are encouraged to take up masculine roles and abandon their naturally gracious nature to pursue arbitrary goals like “Breaking the Glass Ceiling”. We live in a society where girls and women are mocked and called “Brainwashed” or “Pick Me Girls” for behaving the way they want to and the way they always have.

In the history of human existence, the essence of femininity has long been revered, celebrated, and cherished. Historically, it has been intertwined with notions of grace, resilience, and nurturing. It was an intrinsic aspect of womanhood that has shaped cultures, societies, and civilizations. Yet, as the sands of time shift and the winds of change blow across the landscape of modernity, there emerges a disquieting trend a subtle but discernible erosion of femininity.

In contemporary society, the forces at play, weave a complex narrative that steers women further away from their natural state. The rise of industrialization and technological advancements like social media has undeniably brought about transformative shifts in societal norms and expectations. While progress is undeniable and laudable, it begs the question: at what cost?

Femininity, often associated with gentleness, compassion, and nurturing, has been unfairly undervalued in a world that prioritizes assertiveness and dominance. However, embracing these very qualities is not a weakness; it's a hidden strength with the potential to heal the world.

Historically, the societal narrative has pitted femininity against success, painting a picture of strong women needing to shed their feminine traits to achieve professional and personal fulfillment. This has led many women to suppress their natural inclinations, leaving them feeling disconnected from their authentic selves.

The truth is, that feminine energy is not synonymous with weakness. It embodies a potent force of collaboration, empathy, and emotional intelligence – qualities crucial for fostering positive change.

The roots of these ideas can be traced back to Betty Friedan, a prominent figure in the feminist movement. Initially known for her groundbreaking work, "The Feminine Mystique," which ignited discussions about women's roles in society and the concept of the "problem that has no name,". She argued that the idealized image of suburban housewives perpetuated by post-war culture stifled women's intellectual and emotional potential, relegating them to a limited existence devoid of meaningful pursuits. However, the less discussed part of her life and teachings is that later in life she expressed regret over some of her earlier theories and perspectives. Friedan later came to reconsider certain aspects of her ideas.

In her later years, Friedan reflected on how her focus on women's liberation had sometimes overlooked the importance of family and relationships. She recognized that her earlier writings had perhaps neglected the diversity of women's experiences, particularly those who found fulfillment in traditional roles as wives and mothers. Friedan acknowledged that her message had ended up alienating women who did not fit into her narrative of liberation from domesticity.

There is no denying that women, by nature, are often adept at building bridges, nurturing relationships, and fostering connections. These skills are essential for addressing the world's most pressing issues, from environmental degradation to social conflict. Imagine a world where female leaders, driven by compassion and collaboration, navigate complex negotiations and build consensus.

Furthermore, feminine energy promotes nurturing. This doesn't solely apply to raising children; it extends to nurturing communities, fostering creativity, and caring for the environment. A world where women actively nurture and protect what sustains us all holds immense potential for a more balanced and sustainable future.

Embracing femininity doesn't mean conforming to outdated stereotypes of women tolerating abuse or choosing to stay in disrespectful & abusive relationships rather it's about acknowledging and harnessing the unique strengths inherent in women. It's about celebrating the power of compassion, collaboration, and nurturing qualities that are not only essential for individual well-being but also hold the key to healing the world.

As Maya Angelou eloquently stated, "I am a woman, phenomenal. Woman, hear me roar." Let us, by embracing our full selves, unleash the collective roar of feminine strength and pave the way for a more harmonious and hopeful future.