I’ve often been told that I go too far with my ideals.
In the comfort of my cozy living room — a place where I usually enjoy a warm blanket during the chilly Wisconsin winters — I stand up without a word. With my three sons watching, I stride across the room to grab the remote and switch the channel if a commercial comes on that objectifies women.
We refuse to engage with it.
When magazines arrive at our doorstep, my boys know I’ll sift through them first to eliminate any degrading images of women. More often than not, only a fraction of the magazine remains when I’m done.
We won’t allow it to take up space in our home.
If I hear lyrics on the radio that hint at the objectification of women while driving, I quickly turn off the radio as if trying to obliterate the message completely.
We won’t passively listen to it.
My children are accustomed to my actions; I’ve been demonstrating and explaining my choices for as long as they can remember. This is my way of modeling what is acceptable and what is not regarding the portrayal of women in our culture. I often hear the mantra: “This is how society is; you can’t change it.” But I refuse to accept that.
While I cannot control the wider world or the disturbing images of violence and disrespect that permeate our media, I can take a stand through my actions. I firmly believe that children learn more from what we do than from what we say. So, I will continue this mission.
Can I oversee every influence on my boys as they navigate school and friendships, especially with two of them preparing to head off to college soon? I know it’s unrealistic. They’ve been exposed to the same troubling messages that I have. Yet, as their mother, I am the first woman they’ve ever known, and my responses shape their understanding. Thus, I will persist in this household revolution.
A revolution is necessary. Even when others tell me it doesn’t matter.
It’s a revolution against the cultural norms that dictate how women are respected or disrespected. I will keep advocating for change, even if some say I’m overreacting. One day, when my children are adults without me, I hope the memories of my actions will resonate in their minds like the snap of a rubber band, serving as a reminder of my commitment to challenging societal norms.
Society may attempt to condition my children to accept the prevailing narratives about women, but in my small yet significant way, I can assert, “No. We do not have to tolerate this.”
For those interested in taking their own steps toward family planning and empowerment, consider exploring resources like the BabyMaker at Home Insemination Kit or the CryoBaby At Home Insemination Kit for guidance. For further insights on pregnancy and home insemination, check out this excellent resource from Cleveland Clinic.
In summary, the way we raise the next generation of boys is crucial. By actively demonstrating our values and beliefs, we can forge a path toward a healthier understanding of gender respect.
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