Respecting her must begin at home

In this era when the dialogue on feminism is gaining momentum, there is increased discussion on women is being suppressed and the problems she has to face to prove herself that she is no less in any way to a man; there is another side to the mirror. Married women sacrifice career for the sake of in-laws and husband. There are several such cases where a woman is not allowed to go out for work. Many well educated, ambitious woman have had to give up their desires and aspiring careers just because they are expected to stay at home by their in-laws/ husband.

There are also women who are well qualified, but get married and opt not to work out of their will. It is not that they arent worth of a career. It is just that they choose to not work. They are happy taking care of their husband, kids and in-laws, cooking, cleaning etc. But then these women are always compared to a a working lady and insulted by husband and in-laws.

Take the example of Swetha. She is well-educated with a master’s degree. She was married immediately after studies as per her parents wish and she was happy too. Gradually, she got busy in her new life, but she always failed to reach the expectations of her new family. She was then blessed with two children, and her life got busy with nurturing and taking care of them.

Now that her kids started going to school, she has taken up a job as a part time teacher in a nearby school, to keep herself busy and for financial independence at least to an extent. Now she faces a new challenge. “See how the women are progressing these days,” the neighbour lady ‘X’ has a corporate job, two kids and how smartly she manages her home and kids. She is a talented lady...” - she gets to hear such comments.

One one side it is said that a woman’s primary duty is to take care of the house and family. On the other side she is taunted that she is not as capable as other women who earn a fair number of bucks and hold corporate jobs and respect in the society (in their opinion). I really find it difficult to understand how one can expect a woman, for that matter a man, to be a robot?

Yes, families and people like this do exist where women are always preached about her responsibilities and duties but with no rights, even the simple ones. Here, comes one more aspect, many a times it is a woman who judges the other woman. They start comparing….and belittle other women - “Oh, you watch TV at this hour? Oh…you read books? I hardly find time for such things.”

“Oh! I cannot afford to quit job…whereas you are happily sitting at home”. “I cannot do this, that………where as you can’. ‘I have never ever ordered food outside…..but you are lucky to do so” - The list is endless.

It’s time that women, who are sailing in the same boat be little sensible to each other and create solidarity. Each one of us is striving in our own ways. Every person on this earth has life of their own with different sources, different situations, opportunities and problems to fight against. So, let’s respect each other, and support one another.

By: Susmitha