Back in about 2002 I saw an interesting movie called
Mona Lisa Smile. It was a bit contrite in it's presentation, but the acting and the setting were wonderful. While it was by no means an Oscar nominee, it made me really wonder if we that
believe in women have come far at all...
When a man becomes a father why is he never questioned about returning to work while the mother is grilled (and then judged) on her intent? even if she earns more money? has a better education? has a more promising career path (ie: partner or VP or...)? Why is it assumed that the female has a binary option: to be a mom or continue a career? While a man is never questioned? Why does being a male entitle you to "having it all" and being a female limits our options?
For those out there who question if this exists, I'd encourage you to take a look at several
sources out there. Which, due to it's ubiquitousness, indicates that it IS widespread, at least in the US. No where was it more evident than over the last two years. Clearly there was only 2 pigeonholes: mommy or trailing wife who took whatever opportunity was available, even if she could do so much more. Because I fit in to neither, I was ostracized by just about all in the community and at times truly ridiculed for it. When my intent to return to work was exposed, truly was I negatively judged.
It saddens me that there has been very little to no true progress made in the last 6 decades. I can only hope that MY BOYS don't discriminate on any basis, be it skin, religion, gender or sexual orientation. The world is getting smaller everyday and I can assure you that if you take the time to get to know another person, you will have at least a few things in common. These common items should be our focus, our strength, not the basis on which to exclude and hurt others.
