The Purpose of Women: A Deeper Exploration

The question of why a woman's purpose is seen to serve men often stems from centuries of patriarchal norms and societal expectations. This article delves into the historical contexts that have shaped these views and explores a modern perspective where women are defined by their own purposes rather than those imposed by others.

Historical Context and Patriarchy

For centuries, patriarchal societies have dominated worldwide, with churches of all faiths perpetuating these gender roles. Women have been seen as secondary to men, often being relegated to roles of subservience. This has led to the misconception that a woman's purpose is to serve men. However, it is important to recognize that this is not an inherent truth but rather a construct perpetuated by societal norms.

History provides poignant examples of what could go wrong when women are not afforded the same rights and dignity as men. During and after World War I, for instance, many men returned from battles with trench foot and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) only to find themselves lectured about women's oppression by suffragettes. This scenario underscores how the deck was stacked against women in certain contexts.

Equality and Self-Defined Purpose

Women are not mere property or tools to serve men. Each individual, regardless of gender, is equally valuable and has a self-defined purpose. A woman's purpose is not inherently to serve men; rather, it can be to serve her own growth, pursue her passions, and contribute to the betterment of society.

The shift towards recognizing gender equality has brought about significant changes in how we view the roles of men and women. The concept of the 'nuclear family model'—where men are workers and women are housekeepers—is no longer a realistic or acceptable proposition. This change has made society more complex, where individuals must navigate their own roles and responsibilities.

While nature may dictate certain biological purposes, it is important to recognize that the cultural roles assigned to these purposes can be redefined. For instance, while a woman may biologically serve to continue the species, she should not be confined to this role alone. In a functional relationship, men and women serve and support each other. This dynamic can vary widely across cultures, but the core principle remains: mutual respect and support.

Conclusion and Reflection

The purpose of women should not be based on serving men but on their own growth, aspirations, and contributions to society. Natural biological roles should not be the sole definition of a woman's purpose. Instead, a woman's purpose can be as varied and complex as the individual herself. By recognizing and embracing this, society can move towards a more equitable and just future.

Just as Atlas carries the world on its shoulders, women must be empowered to stand tall and assert their own voices and purposes. By doing so, we can create a more balanced and harmonious society where each person, regardless of gender, contributes to the greater good.