Gender Roles in Society

 Another week, another blog.  Here we are again bonding through my homework assignments.  Isn’t that great. 

So this one is going to be kind of tough to do in a way that will not rub anyone the wrong way.  I ask you to remember, that I try my best to come across as being unbiased.  I will simply share with you what we went over in class.  This week, we spoke about gender roles, which for the last many years, has been kind of a hot topic.

I will say, first off, I learned A LOT.  It was actually a really interesting subject for me!  I watched a video in preparation about whether or not society has influenced men and women in ways that puts them in their “acceptable areas of performance” I guess you could say.  Now before I proceed, let me say that I am indifferent on this point, especially after watching the video.  It was really efficient in showing the benefits of both sides of the opinion spectrum of gender roles and equality among the work force.  In regards to women and equality, I think it is absolutely amazing that so many strong women want to help with the heavy lifting in the workforce whether that be in the fire department, being the CEO in a successful business, or in the military.  I will say though, having been raised in a more traditional home, that my mother is easily the most amazing person I have ever been blessed to know.  Anyone who was able to put up with me and my sisters going at it almost 24/7 definitely deserves a gold medal. 

I think both sides of this argument are very valid in their own ways.  For example, women tend to be much more creative and attentive to detail than men.  These traits are invaluable among the workforce.  They are quick to uplift and inspire, and simply improve pretty much everything around them. (Take my word for it, guys are not that great in comparison to women).  I will say however, that there are roles in society that men can genetically be more effective in.  The point was brought up in the video that a male firefighter would be able to carry someone out of a burning building with ease while a female firefighter very possibly will have more of a struggle.  I’m sorry, but that is just how the human body works, men are usually physically stronger than women.  Now, does that mean that women should not be firefighters?  In my opinion, of course not.  I will simply say that they might be fighting an uphill battle while doing so.

The opposite is also very true though.  In terms of nurturing and showing love, men tend to struggle.  I have always known that my dad loves me as his son.  However, that does not mean that he is the first one there for me when I’m throwing my dinner up at 2 in the morning (I love you Mom).  My mother has always been such a compassionate woman that I strive daily to try to be a little more like (most often to no avail).  There is just something incredibly special and invaluable that women offer and men simply lack, and that is helping their children really feel their love and care.  Don’t get me wrong, men can do this to an extent, but like I said, women are just absolutely phenomenal at it.  Now this doesn’t mean that all households should fall into the traditional “dad works while mom stays home” system, but I do believe it means that (like I stated above about men being stronger physically) women are simply more fit to raise children in the special way that they do. 

I don’t want to drag this out longer than necessary, I just hope you all see the importance of both men and women, together in society, accepting differences and working together.  Whether that be in burning buildings or back home, I know that we all have a place.  Let us not limit ourselves in achieving our own potential in whatever desire that may be in..