Publisher’s Points to Ponder: What does it mean to be a woman?

What does it mean to be a woman? People answer this in various ways. The truth is that the answer to this question is limitless. There is no right or wrong answer. Many people will respond to this question with Proverbs 31. Others would say that being a woman is complicated. What would be your explanation of what it means to be a woman?

Besides the biological differences between men and women, I would say that being a woman means having a man’s capabilities in many circumstances and the willingness to allow the man to take the lead. The old adage states, “behind every good man is a good woman.” I know some of you are frowning, but allow me to explain. In some cases, women must play both roles because the male figure is absent in the household. In other cases, women need to learn how to lead like men because there is no guarantee that they will be married forever. How many stories have we heard about 20-year marriages ending, leaving the woman with no survival skills for running the household? That said, men and women are equal, but ultimately, the man is the provider and the household leader if the couple’s vision and goals are aligned. This alignment could look differently in varying families. Do what works for you.

I believe most women would agree with me when I say that being a woman is both multifaceted and complex. It means rising up to tear down the double standards set by men when defining our role in the church, home, and motherhood. Being a woman means being courageous and willing to admit your fears when necessary. For many women, womanhood means being true to yourself while respecting others who share their true identity. Picture this. Being a woman means being strong enough to do the heavy lifting while being confident enough to let a man do the lifting.

All things considered, I feel blessed to be a woman and part of a gender that grows stronger every day. As you celebrate National Women’s History Month throughout March, my hope is for you to think about the courageous, strong and determined women whose shoulders we stand on today. Think about those women who opened doors to endless possibilities for us to be who we are. Let’s keep this conversation going on Facebook by sharing what it means to be a woman. www.Facebook.com/OlneyEnterprise.